Daniel Farke publicly declares how Noah Okafor needs to improve to shine at Leeds
Daniel Farke and Leeds United are looking to build on an impressive 3-1 away victory to Wolves this weekend when they take on Bournemouth.
Farke wants to keep Leeds in the Premier League, but is aware of the massive task in front of him with plenty of games still left to go.
Leeds United have started planning for January’s transfer window, as fellow relegation rivals Sunderland spent £150m plus in the summer.
On Saturday, Leeds face Bournemouth at Elland Road, in what will be a tough but telling game in their quest for survival.
Ahead of the clash, Leeds boss Farke has issued a demanding statement on marquee summer signing Noah Okafor.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke says Noah Okafor must ‘keep the ball better’
Okafor was signd in the summer transfer window to add goals to the team, and despite scoring in Leeds’ victory against Wolves, Farke still wants more from his Swiss international.
BBC Radio Leeds broadcaster Adam Pope reported quotes from the Leeds boss ahead of Saturday’s game via his personal X account on Thursday.
“With his back to goal, he has to be a bit stronger. His success rate in his dribbling has to be better,” said Farke.
“In terms of being a goal threat, he has stepped up, but he must keep the ball better. Needs to find better times to take risks.”
| Minutes played | 70 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Possession lost | 22 |
| Dribble attempts (successful) | 14 (6) |
Leeds United also signed Dominic Calvert-Lewin this year to bolster their attacking options, as Farke continues to favour attacker Brendan Aaronson.
It’s early days, but Okafor has already shown signs that he can be the difference-maker for Leeds this year.
Noah Okafor can be the difference between Leeds staying up or not
Okafor is a quick, agile, and versatile forward who suits the style of play in the Premier League.
There have been question marks over Okafor’s end-product and decision-making at previous clubs, something Leeds fans will be hoping isn’t a problem for them this year.
- Okafor cost Leeds an initial fee of £13m potentially rising to £18m if add-ons are met
- Okafor can play left wing, attacking midfield, or as a striker
- The forward has played 24 times for his national team
Okafor is still only 25 years old and is far from reaching his peak. He has the makings of the top player, and if he can keep improving week on week, then Leeds may find themselves still in England’s top flight at the end of the season.
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