Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Mon 20 April 2026 12:10, UK

Leeds United are preparing for a big midweek Premier League clash against Bournemouth as they look to continue their push for survival.

It’s been a huge week for Daniel Farke’s side, with wins against Manchester United and Wolves all but securing their spot in the top flight following the ascent from the Championship.

After a string of draws heading into the international break, the Whites were dragged back into the relegation battle, but their recent form has seen them able to forge an eight-point gap to the drop zone.

Aided by the continuous faltering form of Tottenham, Leeds are now well-placed to go on and secure survival in the Premier League.

Alongside this, Farke’s men will be preparing for a huge FA Cup semi-final clash with Chelsea on Sunday, but first they must make the long trip down to the South Coast to face Bournemouth.

Rotation for Daniel Farke with Wembley trip approaching

Picking up six points in two matches, the facts tell you that Leeds are in a fantastic position.

Though, as Farke continued to stress following the win against Wolves, the job is not yet done, meaning he cannot go too far with the rotation ahead of the trip to Wembley.

With this in mind, though, Farke may take the opportunity to rest multiple players, specifically the ones who have been more vulnerable to injury as of late.

Since returning from international duty with Switzerland, attacker Noah Okafor has been in scintillating form for the Elland Road outfit, scoring three goals in less than a week.

So far in 2026, Okafor has struggled with injury setbacks, which could prompt Farke to hand the versatile forward a rest with Wembley on the horizon.

Lukas Nmecha could come in to partner Dominic Calvert-Lewin up top, while Sean Longstaff may come in for Ao Tanaka, who has shone in each of Leeds’ three matches post-international break, with the view of keeping him ready for Wembley.

Closing out three potential changes, Joe Rodon could make his return from injury to start after making the squad for the first time in weeks against Wolves, coming off the bench.

Anton Stach and Dan James remain sidelined for the time being, but could be ready for Sunday’s semi-final at Wembley, with no risks taken here.

FA Cup is a big opportunity for Leeds

While the upcoming bout with Bournemouth has to be taken seriously, Leeds have given themselves some valuable breathing room ahead of the semi-final.

Throughout the season, the cup has been utilised effectively by Farke, who has taken opportunities to build form and momentum while maintaining a positive atmosphere around LS11.

Last time out in the competition, the travelling fans had one of the best days in recent years against West Ham, as Pascal Struijk rattled in the winning penalty, with thousands set to descend on the capital again.

With an eight-point gap to Tottenham in the relegation zone, Farke and his side will be able to take the semi-final seriously, without having to keep too much of an eye on the league results around them on the same day.

Bournemouth must be treated as what it is: a big game in the quest for survival, but an appearance in the FA Cup final would cap off what has been a fantastic season at Elland Road.