NEWS: Daniel Farke’s injury worries pile up ahead of Leeds visit to Wolves in crunch clash
Both clubs are missing key players. Leeds will again be without goalkeeper Lucas Perri, who is recovering from a quad injury, while Karl Darlow is set to deputise after impressing with a string of fine saves in the 1-0 defeat at Fulham. Dan James and Willy Gnonto are major doubts, the pair battling core muscle and calf issues respectively.
Wolves, meanwhile, are without striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, who is sidelined with an Achilles injury, while Leon Chiwome faces a long spell out with a knee problem. There are also concerns over defender Ki-Jana Hoever and goalkeeper Jose Sa.
Farke admitted in his pre-match press conference that the fitness of James and Gnonto would be late calls. “Dan James is obviously a major doubt, he’s struggling with a hit in his core muscle. Also Willy Gnonto is struggling with some calf problems. Late calls with both of them,” he said.
“Apart from that, everyone’s in a good place.”
There was better news with Ethan Ampadu back in the starting line-up and Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka included in the squad again, boosting Leeds’ midfield options.
For Wolves, Pereira is under increasing scrutiny after four straight defeats left his side bottom of the table, but the Portuguese coach is expected to be handed a new long-term deal as the club aim for stability. His challenge has been made harder by injuries and a lack of goals, with supporters voicing frustration at Molineux.
Leeds are also under pressure, having taken only four points from their opening four matches. Farke’s side have struggled for consistency in front of goal, and the trip to Wolves feels like their first ‘must-win’ encounter of the season. Both clubs are tipped to fight near the bottom, and three points on Saturday would not only ease nerves but also send a message to rivals.
“It’s important to show resilience,” Farke added. “We know Wolves are in a similar position. These games can shape a season.”
With absentees on both sides and little margin for error, Saturday promises to be a tense affair that could set the tone for the months ahead.
