According to Leeds United manager Daniel Farke, certain players react differently to bumps and minor injuries, sometimes as a result of the positions they play.
During his pregame press conference on Thursday afternoon, the German revealed that, in his experience working in football, he thinks there is a difference in the mindset of some players among his squads.
“There are] some softer players on the pitch and some who are more warrior mentality,” Farke said in response to the question of whether some players are more adept than others of playing despite injury. I must add, it also depends on the situation.”
“Even a minor issue can damage a creative player’s brain if they need to express themselves. A strong defender may occasionally be able to handle a bruise or other injury. There are variations.
In training and games, Marcelo Bielsa’s team was known for requiring a high degree of physical effort from his players, which unavoidably resulted in injuries. For the sake of the team dynamic, some players in the group, like Stuart Dallas, were known to play despite pain; however, Farke clarified that some injuries require rest and treatment once they are sustained.
He went on to clarify the standards for a player to be included in Leeds’ matchday squad. “A muscle tear, for example, it’s not like you wrap it [and get on with it] like in our day, you have to deliver in top level – without being able to sprint you can hardly deliver,” he continued.
“Players who are able to complete the final practice before the game are added to the gameday squad. Although it varies, it’s still crucial that they’re completely fit, Farke stated.
Patrick Bamford and Junior Firpo only returned to training on Thursday of this week following a succession of knocks, so Leeds is hoping to see them in Friday’s practice. Another question mark is Pascal Struijk, who hasn’t been able to train ahead of Coventry City’s visit to Elland Road, in contrast to the two players stated above who are still probably involved.
