Daniel Farke assesses Leeds United form, Okafor injury and Villa test | OneFootball

Daniel Farke has previewed Leeds United's trip to Villa Park. According to Leeds Live, he confirmed Noah Okafor has a hamstring injury that will keep him out for between two and four weeks, and said Pascal Struijk, Anton Stach and James are back in training and available. Okafor will miss the next two games.

Leeds have not lost an away game since January 7, with defeat to Arsenal their only reverse in the past six weeks. They have not won a league away match since September, when they beat bottom club Wolves, and they travel as underdogs. Aston Villa are in the top three but have lost two of their past three at home.

Farke said the pressures of chasing a Championship title compared with fighting for Premier League survival are not markedly different, stressing the focus remains on themselves. He noted that, whereas a draw could feel like a loss last season, now a draw can be an important result.

He described Villa, and forthcoming opponents Manchester City, as really tough tests against sides playing at a top level. Leeds, he added, must hope their opponents are not at their very best and aim to keep the game tight, having already taken points off top teams this season.

The head coach underlined the squad's self-belief and praised recruitment that has helped them reach the FA Cup fifth round, while cautioning there is no reason to relax. He said Leeds are on a good path but is realistic about targets, noting that 30 points was enough in former years yet may not be this season. A point-per-game remains a guide, he suggested, but they will push harder if required and keep their foot on the gas.

Source: Leeds Live