Leeds United manager Daniel Farke addressed the media ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup clash with Birmingham City at St Andrew’s, with kick-off scheduled for 12:00 GMT.
Here are the highlights from his press conference:
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Farke emphasized that “securing survival is the main objective” for the team, and made it clear that they “will not risk any player with concerns” in their fourth-round match against Birmingham.
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Unfortunately, Anton Stach and Pascal Struijk won’t be part of the matchday squad as they are still completing their rehabilitation. However, striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin “has returned” after dealing with an illness, Farke confirmed.
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While league performance is the “priority” for the West Yorkshire club, Farke stated they “will not take unnecessary risks” against Birmingham, who are just one point outside the Championship play-off zone. He added, “We’re not looking to exit this cup competition intentionally. I’m a strong advocate for cup tournaments.”
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Regarding their FA Cup opponents, Farke remarked, “They have a talented group of players and certainly have a shot at promotion.” Birmingham is on an impressive unbeaten streak of eight games since January 1st, and Farke noted that “the club has significant potential” in their pursuit of a return to the Premier League.
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Farke also shared his views on the recent dismissals of Premier League managers Thomas Frank and Sean Dyche: “Having a proven manager like Thomas, who has significantly contributed to Brentford’s success, is invaluable. He’s not just an excellent coach but also a remarkable individual. As for Sean Dyche, he has a solid track record in relegation battles. There’s a sense that he provided stability after a tumultuous start for Nottingham.”
Stay updated with all of Friday’s FA Cup news conferences and other football news.
Tune in to witness Leeds United’s FA Cup match against Birmingham City on BBC Radio 5 Live.