Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has spoken on the League Cup’s importance this season ahead of Wednesday’s game against Chelsea. The Whites beat Nottingham Forest in the last round to progress to this stage.
They will have the chance to make quick progress to the next stage of the competition when they face Xabi Alonso’s side.
Leeds are unbeaten in all competitions to start the season, and have only conceded two goals.
The Blues are a much more free-scoring side under their new boss, which will be a real test for the Whites when they visit Stamford Bridge. Their last meeting ended in a 2-2 draw with Farke’s side mounting a late comeback to take a point.
Chelsea have some injury issues ahead of Wednesday night, and Farke confirmed that Dan James is a doubt.
Daniel Farke makes huge claim about Leeds United cup ambition
Daniel Farke. Credit: IMAGO
Last season, Leeds United were knocked out in their first game in the League Cup.
It was a shocking defeat on penalties to Sheffield Wednesday after Daniel Farke fielded a rotated side. However, last year the Whites managed to reach the FA Cup Semi final.
This time around, Farke believes the club have enough to win the competition.
”We will try to win it. Quickest way to Europe and some glory. Premier League always priority, especially to establish ourselves at this level.” he said in Tuesday’s press conference.
”Not the favourites but we travel to London to go through without doing anything stupid. You have to rotate a bit but we want to go through to the next round.”
The winner of the League Cup enters the play-off round of the UEFA Europa Conference League next season.
READ MORE: Injury doubt emerges for Leeds United ahead of Chelsea clash
Can Leeds lift the League Cup this season?
Last year, no one gave the Whites a chance but they managed to reach the FA Cup semi final.
When it comes to cup competitions, the draw plays a huge role. In Leeds’ run to Wembley, they faced a lot of Championship teams, but did beat West Ham in the quarter final.
This season there is confidence in the depth on the bench.
Farke can rotate and still keep the team very competitive for these types of games.
If the club can take things game-by-game and handle each opponent as the competition grows, then they will stand a chance of making the final. But they will have to start by beating Chelsea on Wednesday.
