Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Fri 3 April 2026 9:10, UK

Daniel Farke may look to switch from the back five formation that has brought Leeds United success this season.

Sunday’s clash against West Ham is the perfect chance for the Whites to secure their spot in the semi-finals of the FA Cup, but also the perfect chance for Farke to try something new.

As good an achievement as that would be, Premier League survival remains the ultimate goal for Leeds ahead of the final seven games of the season, and the majority of their focus needs to be on that.

However, Sunday’s FA Cup tie at the London Stadium could present Farke with the opportunity to try something new with this squad.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin could miss West Ham clash

Farke revealed in his latest press conference that he has question marks over the availability of Dominic Calvert-Lewin as a result of a hamstring injury.

Given the fact that he is their top scorer this season with 10 goals, that would be a blow, but it could also force Farke into making a change with his system.

Most of Leeds’ points this season have been picked up while utilising a back five, but with attacking output having dried up recently, a change may be needed.

Luaks Nmecha would offer little without service from the wide areas, which is where the likes of Wilfried Gnonto and Dan James could feature this weekend.

Leeds are winless in their last six Premier League games, leaving the German with little excuse not to at least try something slightly different with the view of it potentially having positive long-term effects.

Is Daniel Farke likely to make changes vs West Ham?

Given that survival is the main goal, many thought that this weekend’s clash with West Ham could be a game where minutes are handed out to fringe players.

And to some extent, that may be true, but Farke has hinted that he is going to name the strongest lineup possible.

The German said: “Makes no sense to rest too many players with an eight-day gap until the next game.”

While that holds true, Leeds will not want to suffer any new injury concerns, which may also play into his mind.