Daniel Farke confirms three Leeds United players to miss Manchester United clash

Manchester United and Leeds United are due to play on Monday at Old Trafford in a Premier League game that is important at both sides of the table.

In a match that will mark both sides’ return from the international break, Michael Carrick’s side (3rd) have the opportunity to further solidify their position in the Champions League spots.

For Leeds United (15th), points from this game could be essential in helping the Yorkshire outfit maintain their Premier League status for another year.

West Ham United’s victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday evening moved the Hammers out of the relegation zone and to within one point of Leeds, putting pressure on Daniel Farke’s side for the clash at Old Trafford.

Farke has now confirmed that three players will miss the game, hindering the Whites as they look to pick up points at a crucial point in the season.

Speaking to the media, via the Leeds United website, Farke explained that “Anton Stach will definitely miss the game on Monday, ankle injury after the cup game.

“Also, Joe Rodon will miss the game, also an ankle injury for him.”

Former Manchester United winger Daniel James will also miss the clash after picking up a “adductor strain just in the session before the cup game.”

These three confirmed absences could impact Leeds heavily given they have featured regularly for the Yorkshire outfit this season.

Anton Stach has been present in 26 Premier League matches this season, scoring four goals whilst assisting a further three, whilst Joe Rodon has scored twice in 29 league appearances from his defensive position.

James has featured 15 times this season in the Premier League and his absence from the game removes key depth from forward positions, impacting Leeds negatively.

These absences could be a deciding factor in the game.

Farke also added that up to three additional players could be missing from Monday’s game. Expanding on the question surrounding potential absentees, the Leeds manager stated: “Jaka Bijol is currently struggling with a knock. He was not in team training yet during this week.

“Noah Okafor today, not in team training, is struggling with some back problems – also question mark behind his availability.

“Gabi Gudmundsson has made some progress. He came back with some light groin problems after the international games, so he is making light progress.”

Focus will now switch towards the game at Old Trafford on Monday evening to see which side comes out on top in a game crucial for both clubs in their aspirations for the remainder of the season.