Even though the last international break was just ending, Daniel Farke is already looking ahead to the issues Leeds United will face following the next one. On the first Friday night back following the international matchups, the Whites play Sheffield United at 8 p.m. in less than five weeks.
Even though Farke faced unique difficulties due to the first Saturday’s midday kickoff, he is aware that things will be even more difficult if he loses a another 16 hours of preparation against a pre-season promotion favorite. Only Max Wober and Daniel James were absent against Burnley, but Farke worries that some of his players might miss the Blades match because of international duty.
The German was questioned regarding the advantages of having two weeks off between weekends in order to adequately prepare his team. For a Tuesday match, Farke would have loved a victory and a quick turnaround.”I’ll tell you what I would have liked to see today: three points and two days off before the next game.” That’s what I would like to see, but I also know that after a full week of training, we always do better.
It’s a subject for every team to discuss. On the training field, having time is always advantageous. Since 13 players have been absent during international vacations, we are aware that no other squad at this level has possibly suffered as much.
“This is wonderful news for us because it indicates that we have quality players serving overseas, but the first game is always a little more crucial. We performed incredibly well for this, so I’m even more disappointed that we weren’t able to utilize it since, to be honest, the next international break will likewise be more challenging.
“The next game is already scheduled for Friday night. It’s uncertain whether every single player will make it, but once more, you have to adjust to the circumstances rather than make a choice. We’re used to it too.
