Daniel Farke can’t afford to make costly FA Cup error, it could damage Leeds United
Leeds have stumbled as of late, after an excellent run of form saw them form a gap to the Premier League’s bottom three.
Daniel Farke’s side sit 15th in the Premier League, but have lost two on the bounce to Manchester City and Sunderland – somewhat uncharacteristically at Elland Road.
The Whites have a break from league action this weekend, as they welcome Norwich City to West Yorkshire for an FA Cup fifth-round tie.
Leeds have used the competition to build confidence twice this season, with wins against Derby County and Birmingham City.
Facing Championship opposition once again, Farke must not rest on his laurels as they take on his former club for a spot in the quarter-finals.
Indeed, fielding anything close to a second-string XI would be a massive mistake.
Leeds have fantastic chance to boost confidence with FA Cup win
Up against yet another second-tier opponent, Leeds have been handed another fantastic opportunity to progress in the iconic competition.
Throughout the opening rounds, Farke has most certainly looked to take the competition seriously, and while they were troubled by Birmingham, the professionalism was on show to win the tie via a penalty shootout.
After their recent run of form in the Premier League, Leeds are in need of a boost to get back in form, and the FA Cup has presented a perfect chance to do exactly that.
Forward momentum is always positive for any side, and while the league remains the priority, Farke simply cannot rest on his laurels and field a weakened team, or he risks worsening the nerves at Elland Road heading into the season’s crunch point.
- Read more: Everything we know about Daniel Farke’s contract situation as Leeds United talks postponed
Leeds are in a good place – now they need to finish the job
While not as seamlessly as fellow promoted outfit Sunderland, Leeds have adapted to Premier League life much more comfortably than many would have anticipated.
The formidable Elland Road record has waned slightly in recent weeks, with two losses in two, but the place is certainly something that Leeds have up their sleeve.
Leeds have done well to get where they are, with multiple sides splitting themselves and the relegation zone.
And with a run of fixtures including Arsenal, Aston Villa and Manchester City across the last month, they are not the ones having to claw back points to escape.
Farke’s side have themselves well placed with nine matches to go, now they must finish the job.
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