Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Wed 29 April 2026 15:10, UK

Daniel Farke will be eyeing Leeds United’s game against Burnley as a chance to truly cement his side in the Premier League.

While the Whites are on 40 points, it could take more than that tally to remain in the Premier League this season.

The game against already relegated Burnley is certainly an opportunistic fixture to do so, especially with Friday night’s clash coming at Elland Road.

There may still be some lingering frustration after failing to make the most of their FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea, but focus must return to the league.

Now, ahead of Leeds versus Burnley, Farke may be looking at the game with added fury after the latest announcement from the Premier League.

Officials confirmed for Leeds vs Burnley

The Premier League has confirmed the referees, linesmen and VAR for the upcoming matchweek 35 this weekend.

For Leeds’ clash against Burnley, it will be Thomas Bramall taking charge in the centre circle.

Bramall is quite a strict referee, with the official dishing out four yellow cards on average per match. Additionally, he hands out a yellow card every 5.4 fouls, as per Whoscored.

Over the season, Bramall has also awarded plenty of penalties. In 20 Premier League games officiated, he has dished out six.

Why Daniel Farke will be unhappy with Thomas Bramall as referee

Bramall was in fact the referee when Gabriel Gudmundsson was sent off for a second yellow card. At the time, it seemed that Bramall had forgotten that the Swede was already on a booking when he dished out the second.

After being informed by the Crystal Palace players, the Sheffield-based referee sent the Leeds defender to the changing rooms.

It was a decision that the referee likely did not want to make, but nonetheless, it was his mistake that put the Whites at a disadvantage.

Against Burnley, Gudmundsson is unlikely to feature this time around due to a hamstring injury.

Speaking at the time, Farke said: “If it was a foul, it wasn’t even close to a yellow card. There was no pace in the tackle, in the duel, there was not a tactical foul. It was not even close to a yellow card.

“Then it’s most disappointing that he has forgotten that this player was already on the yellow card and was then himself surprised that this decision means a sending off.”

The game ultimately ended 0-0, but with the wingback on the pitch and Farke’s side having 11 players, the result could have turned out different.

The PGMOL was told to issue Bramall a one-match ban for his mistake, but that punishment was subsequently not handed down.

Nonetheless, Farke will not be best pleased to see Bramall so soon after that incident.