There’s just four games to go between now and the end of the season and Leeds United are in action against Oxford United, with automatic promotion closer than ever.
Daniel Farke’s side have opened up a five-point gap over Sheffield United in third place, thanks to the win over Preston at Elland Road on Saturday, with Sheffield United suffering a third loss in a row at Plymouth.
So, with four games to go, Farke will be desperate to have a clean bill of health but that is not possible due to on-loan midfielder Joe Rothwell. The on-loan Bournemouth star is currently out with a calf issue.
It came in between a press conference and the trip to Luton Town, and Rothwell has been missing since – absent for the wins over Middlesbrough and Preston. Farke gave an update on him and then, Dan James.
Daniel Farke provides injury update on Leeds United duo
It is a quick turnaround over the Easter period with Leeds taking on Oxford at the Kassam Stadium, and then Stoke City at Elland Road on Monday. Win both and Leeds could actually be confirmed as promoted.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday ahead of the game, Farke confirmed that Rothwell will miss both Easter games but there is a chance Dan James features on Friday – and should be available for Monday.
“Joe Rothwell will definitely miss this weekend’s game. We hope to have him available for the last home game against Bristol City. With Dan James, it looks slightly better,” Farke told Wednesday’s presser.
Farke continued: “It is fair to say at this stage we will probably have him available for the Monday game. If he can play against Oxford? Late decision. Likely he is available on Monday, trying everything we can.
Are there any other Leeds United injury concerns?
Preston was a bruising encounter for Leeds, the 41st game of a long season and two years in England’s second tier. The first year for many at this level, including the likes of Ao Tanaka and Largie Ramazani.
The odd knock and a few injuries are always likely, but Farke confirmed that there were no new injuries from the 2-1 win over Preston ahead of the trip to Oxford. He says all players available then, are still fit.
“There were obviously a few knocks after the game against Preston, like always after a game – few bruises. But all of the players that played in that game are available for this game [against Oxford United].”
Leeds take on an Oxford side in topsy-turvy form under the experienced Gary Rowett, but a side that did beat Sheffield United. Sam Parkin predicted Leeds to win, but thinks Sheffield United and Burnley will too.
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