Daniel Farke promotes four Leeds U21s as injuries shape Burnley build-up | OneFootball

Daniel Farke has drafted four Leeds United U21s into first-team training before Friday’s meeting with Burnley, a move shaped by injuries and faith in the academy. According to Leedsunited.news, Rhys Chadwick, Alfie Cresswell, Ollie Pickles and Jayden Lienou trained with the senior group.

Gabriel Gudmundsson was present but did not take part after being ruled out with injury, and team-mates marked his birthday. The session underlined the need for internal cover.

Chadwick has five goals and four assists in PL2, the most productive attacker among the quartet this season. Cresswell has contributed four goals and two assists.

Pickles has offered control at the back, totalling 47 tackles and 23 interceptions. Lienou, a former Manchester City left-back with 54 tackles and 99 recoveries, is the only natural option on that flank at present.

James Justin is more than likely to start on the left, while Lienou could feature on the bench. Sam Byram is expected to return to the squad.

Jaka Bijol, Dan James and Anton Stach trained with the seniors, providing experience around the youngsters. Bijol is a doubt for the game, and Stach and James were involved on Sunday.

Noah Okafor missed training after a calf issue picked up against Chelsea. The visitors arrive at Elland Road having sacked Scott Parker before the match, adding uncertainty. Leeds have been backed to take control.

Source: Leedsunited.news