Junior Firpo decision ‘fast tracked’ by FA ahead of Leeds United v QPR
Junior Firpo’s ban in the lead-up to Leeds United against QPR on Saturday was deliberately brought forward by the FA, according to Graham Smyth.
The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist posted on X (9 November) after Firpo was banned for three games on the morning of the clash with QPR, following a headbutt in their 1-0 loss at Millwall in midweek.
Firpo’s apparent headbutt on Millwall defender Danny McNamara wasn’t seen by the on-field referee, but the FA have quickly taken action with the ban issued just one day after the charge was raised.
Smyth said: “(The) charge came through Thursday, and after Leeds put forward their case, the FA made their decision on Friday night.
“(The decision was) fast-tracked due to clarity being needed on whether he could play today (against QPR).”
Junior Firpo decision must not distract Leeds United against QPR
Losing Firpo at such short notice – a matter of hours before kick-off at Elland Road – could potentially have a derailing effect, but they must rise above the distraction.
Daniel Farke was therefore forced into making a change at left-back as one of three, with Sam Byram slotting in as new signing Isaac Schmidt continues to be given limited minutes.
Byram proved an able deputy when standing in for Firpo against Bristol City two weeks ago, and Farke will be hoping the versatile full-back can replicate that display in a must-win game for the Whites.
With United sat third in the Championship table and QPR languishing second-bottom, nothing less than three points will do for the Whites, particularly given their disappointing midweek defeat in the capital.
Having Firpo – who has excelled for club and country in 2024 – would no doubt be a massive bonus for Farke, but if United fail to win this game, he cannot call on his number three’s absence as an excuse.
In other Leeds news, Daniel Farke won’t be happy after one of his currently injured players was called up for international duty.
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