Leeds United moved up to 13th in the Premier League after beating Brighton, but Daniel Farke was left concerned over Anton Stach after the midfielder suffered a worrying ankle injury.
The Germany international was stretchered off after Carlos Baleba fell onto his ankle, with Germany due to announce their squad on May 21. After being threatened with relegation, Leeds are now into 13th.
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With Brighton dominating, a Brighton mistake saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin round the goalkeeper and score his 14th Premier League goal. Sam Byram was mobbed after it was his pass that caused a mistake.
However, attention quickly shifted away from the result after Stach went down in visible pain during the second half. The midfielder required lengthy treatment before eventually being unable to continue.
Anton Stach stretchered off after painful incident
The injury occurred after Baleba landed awkwardly on Stach’s ankle during a challenge. Stach initially attempted to continue after receiving treatment on the pitch.
Concerns quickly increased when blood was visible around his ankle before he was eventually stretchered off. A real blow for Stach, who looked increasingly likely to be called-up by manager Julian Nagelsmann.
Daniel Farke delivers honest Stach verdict
Farke admitted after the match that he was unable to offer any certainty on the severity of the issue while waiting for medical checks, when asked about Stach’s injury and whether it will keep him sidelined.
He said: “Opponent falls on his knee or ankle. Too painful, hope not too bad. World Cup is around the corner, hope it’s not too bad. But just guessing right now. Ankle injury. Have to wait for medical team.”
The timing of the injury will immediately create concern in Germany, with the national team squad set to be announced on May 21. Leeds are also unlikely to take unnecessary risks before the season ends.
Farke also explains why Aaronson was substituted
Brenden Aaronson was another Leeds player forced off during the victory, although Farke sounded far more relaxed when discussing the American midfielder after the match.
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Like Stach, Aaronson is also set to feature at this summer’s World Cup for host nation America, under Mauricio Pochettino. Farke said: “Brenden was a dead leg. Should be alright.”
Leeds now head into their final fixture against West Ham hoping Stach’s injury proves less serious than first feared. Further medical assessment is expected before a decision is made on his availability.
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