Yahoo Sports Farke on injuries, Firpo contract and facing Norwich
Top of the table Leeds United can secure a 12th home Championship win of the season when they face Norwich City on Wednesday (19:45 GMT).
Manager Daniel Farke addressed the media on Monday and here are the key lines from his press conference:
In terms of team news, a late call will be made on midfielder Brenden Aaronson (ankle) but Farke is "carefully optimistic". Forward Manor Solomon is a doubt because of a hamstring problem and is rated 50-50.
Farke was asked about what specific areas he's worked on with Willy Gnonto who, at 21 has made 100 appearances for the club. He said: "He takes on more responsibility and is much more professional, more mobile on the pitch and not too static like a winger just waiting to get the ball. He is much more lively and adventurous. Only thing lacking a little bit at the minute is end product, something he can add."
On former club Norwich City and any vulnerabilities that may exist because of injuries, suspensions and inconsistent form, Farke said: "They'll be highly motivated, especially in an away game when not under that much pressure. I'd compare them a bit like Sheffield Wednesday who go for it and play with intensity and want to press high. I think they'll be desperate to look for late push into the play-offs."
Farke outlined his relationship with Alex Davies (head of scouting) and Adam Underwood (head of football operations) is "perfect" and highlighted how they have "white blood in their veins having served with the club in other roles for a number of years.
On the prospect of young defender James Debayo going out on loan, Farke said: "With Pascal Struijk out at the moment and the availability of Max Wober, I'm a bit careful in doing this. It would be beneficial for James perhaps but also in terms of quality numbers, the group is not getting too small. It's a possibility but at the moment I would say a small possibility."
Meanwhile, Farke would not confirm if striker Sonny Perkins will make his loan deal into a permanent signing at Leyton Orient. "I prefer to focus on the players who are here."
Regarding Junior Firpo's contract talks, he said: "There are too many matches for that at the moment and also wanted him to concentrate on his rehab then finding his rhythm back. January is not the time to speak about this. Recruitment is pretty busy but there will be more relaxed times during the season to speak about it."
Listen to West Yorkshire Sport Daily, weeknights at 18:00, and subscribe to BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast on BBC Sounds
