Leeds United won their 12th League game in a row on Sunday, defeating Millwall to reach top of the table – but Daniel Farke believes Leeds will be without a vital player the next time out.
The victory puts Leeds ahead of Leicester heading into the international break, despite the fact that the Whites have played one more game than Enzo Maresca’s side, who are in FA Cup action on Sunday afternoon.
With the break now in effect, the excitement for Championship football to resume will be greater than ever, as one of the League’s best-ever title battles reaches its culmination. Leeds are currently winning that race.
Leeds’ next game in the hunt for automatic promotion and the Championship crown is away to Watford on Friday night following the break. Those on international assignment will be able to return to action immediately.
Farke has already stated at his news conference on Sunday that he may be without the services of left-back Junior Firpo, who will be away representing the Dominican Republic over the break.
“We have ten training days until the Good Friday game with the group that stays. Travel on Thursday before heading to Watford. Firpo may not return in time for kickoff. “The next two days are important to enjoy.”
Daniel Farke says Junior Firpo may miss Watford next Friday.
Firpo has been exceptional since the turn of the year. Firpo began the season injured and did not appear on the bench until the 1-0 away win over Leicester, where he was forced to wait owing to Sam Byram’s form.
But since then, he has been an important member of Farke’s team, starting 12 of the last 13 matches. Firpo has also provided five assists in that time, demonstrating that he is equally effective going forward as he is in the back line.
However, he continues to face criticism, and it remains to be seen what occurs this summer. Phil Hay says he still has concerns, and odds are he won’t get a new contract. His current deal runs until 2025.
