Daniel Farke to take notice after BBC pundit highlights ‘very special’ Leeds star who is often overlooked
Daniel Farke and Leeds United are on a superb run of form in the Premier League.
The Whites have picked up two wins and two draws from their last four games and have now moved six points clear of the relegation zone.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was the star once again on Saturday evening, grabbing a brace as Leeds beat Crystal Palace 4-1 at Elland Road.
However, Farke’s side had another bright spark against Palace, who deserves just as many plaudits as Calvert-Lewin for his performance.
Pat Nevin thinks Noah Okafor is very special
Noah Okafor was criticised for his performances earlier this season, but Farke is now trusting the forward to play alongside Calvert-Lewin in Leeds’ new 5-3-2 system.
The 25-year-old made the move from AC Milan to Leeds during the summer and now seems to have found his feet at Elland Road.
Okafor has started each of the last three games for Farke’s side, and his off-the-ball work is allowing Calvert-Lewin to thrive.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin highlighted the Switzerland international’s performance against Crystal Palace, as well as his overall quality.
He said: “Okafor, I thought he was the best player on the park in the last game. I thought he was absolutely fantastic.
“It’s easy to overlook him, and you’re drawn towards Dominic Calvert-Lewin a lot of the time, because he’s so good in the air. So look out for Okafor, because I think he’s very special.”
Daniel Farke has big striker decision to make
Leeds face Sunderland on 28 December, and Farke could have a big decision to make regarding his strikeforce.
Lukas Nmecha could be back in contention for the trip to the Stadium of Light after missing the last three games due to injury.
While Nmecha is unlikely to be fit enough to start against Sunderland, it won’t be long before he’s pushing for a position in the starting lineup.
When the German striker is back to full fitness, Farke will have to determine whether Okafor retains his place in the team or is replaced.
Nmecha provides a bigger goal threat than the former AC Milan man, but perhaps lacks the technical ability of Okafor.
Whichever way Farke decides to go, it will be a relief for the Leeds boss that he has competition for places in attacking areas.
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