2nd March 12:30pm| John Smiths Stadium
Leeds United are gearing up for a crucial clash against Huddersfield Town, with the team eyeing their 10th consecutive league win, a feat that would break a record going back to the 1930s. Having travelled to Swansea, Plymouth and Chelsea in recent weeks, a 30 minute jaunt down the M62 will be a welcome relief for the Elland Road faithful, even if it does involve a typically unpredictable West Yorkshire Derby.
Crysencio Summerville looks set to start his 31st game of the season. He turned his ankle last weekend, and was unable to train on Monday, but showed no sign of letting up when coming on as a late substitute against Chelsea midweek. Patrick Bamford is back in full training after recovering from a recent knock. The 30-year-old is likely to start on Saturday, which will see Joel Piroe drop to the bench. Ilea Gruev will face a late fitness test on Friday to determine whether he makes the trip to the John Smith's Stadium. Fark was hopeful Georginio Rutter would return to the side having trained this week.
Farke acknowledged the challenge posed by the early kick-off time, differentiating between a 12:30 pm and a 3 pm start. The initial hours are crucial for player recovery, especially after a demanding away game against Chelsea. The manager highlighted the difficulties of managing sleep rhythms and travel, emphasizing the need for proper rest ahead of the match.
When questioned about the quick turnaround and managing adrenaline levels, Farke stressed the team's good rhythm and the importance of having options within the squad. He emphasized the ability to bring fresh legs onto the pitch, recognizing the need for fresh energy in such a demanding schedule.
Discussing the Huddersfield game, Farke acknowledged the experience of his counterpart, Andre, in managing derbies, drawing parallels with his time in charge of Schalke versus Dortmund in Germany. Farke underscored the intense and energetic nature of local games, expressing awareness of the challenges posed by Huddersfield and the team's commitment to playing with high intensity.
Looking ahead to the potential club record with a 10th consecutive win, Farke downplayed the significance for the record books, emphasizing the team's focus on improving their overall situation. He praised the players for their remarkable run and emphasized the hard work put in during the preparation for such a challenging game.
Huddersfield been in decent shape recently relatively speaking, certainly better than under Darren Moore having played 8, won 3, drawn 3 and lost 2 against Southampton and Hull.
Only four players have created more big chances than Sorba Thomas this season, with Sorba joint first for chances created overall with Summerville and Leif Davis. Only Summerville has created more per game. Town will be confident after a comeback win away at Watford last game in the first game for new manager André Breitenreiter who has decent pedigree as well and took a cheeky dig at us the other week.
...That Ayling goal and "You couldn't script it 
" - Dirty Leeds B@stard.
