Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 20 April 2026 13:10, UK

Daniel Farke could be guilty of having one eye on Leeds United’s FA Cup semi-final this weekend with a clash against Bournemouth looming just before.

The German’s turnaround this season has been earmarked by the Whites’ cup run, and the trip to Wembley has all the makings of a memorable day out for the travelling supporters.

As it stands, Leeds currently look in a strong position to remain in the Premier League, with the LS11 outfit eight points clear of the drop zone.

With that gap, Farke may be thinking about rotating his side ahead of this weekend’s FA Cup clash, and in truth, he may be wise to do so.

Ahead of Leeds facing Chelsea at Wembley, the Whites will want as many of their top stars to be as fit and energised as possible, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin must not be part of any changes.

Why Dominic Calvert-Lewin should not be rotated ahead of FA Cup semi-final

Calvert-Lewin finally ended his Premier League drought in front of goal by netting from the penalty spot against Wolves. It marked just his third goal in 15 appearances in all competitions.

His recent hit rate has been far from the frequency of output previously seen from the Englishman throughout the earlier parts of the season.

However, after finally tasting success in terms of goalscoring, Farke must allow Calvert-Lewin to ride the momentum and any confidence boost that may have come with that.

If the Elland Road outfit are to beat Chelsea, doing so with a fit and firing Calvert-Lewin would go a long way in helping their chances.

Of course, with relegation fears currently in the rear mirror, they could be tempted to rest the 29-year-old, who has had well-documented injury issues.

But for Leeds, those fears have been swatted away. He has missed just three Premier League matches this season, with two of those fitness-related in the opening two matches and another from being ill.

Calvert-Lewin should be allowed the chance to start yet another goal-scoring streak, as it could be a true difference-maker at Wembley.

Farke has done a tremendous job with Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Farke has previously stated he had to “look after” Calvert-Lewin based on his injury history after dropping him for Leeds’ game against Liverpool at Anfield.

It made perfect sense at the time, and perhaps the German can be lauded for the Englishman shrugging off his previous woes.

Ahead of the season, the Leeds manager stated, “It’s a chance for him to revive his career and reach his former heights when he was outstanding at the Premier League level.”

Now, with the season nearing an end and potential silverware on the line for the Elland Road outfit, it is safe to say that the German’s words have rung true, with Calvert-Lewin hailed for Leeds’ success this campaign.