Following a crucial 2-0 victory over Sheffield United, Leeds United manager Daniel Farke expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance, which saw them climb to second in the Championship table. The win at Elland Road came courtesy of second-half goals from Pascal Struijk and Mateo Joseph. In his post-match press conference, Farke broke down the tactical aspects of the win, praised key players, and discussed the club’s plans moving forward.
Patience was the Key to Victory
Daniel Farke highlighted the team’s persistence in breaking down a stubborn Sheffield United defence. Despite a goalless first half, the manager never lost faith in his side’s ability to find a breakthrough.
“Scoring the first goal is crucial,” Farke stated, emphasizing how the opener changed the dynamic of the game. He felt the goal was inevitable given his team’s control. “It felt like it was coming because we were so dominant.”
Once Leeds got the first, the second goal quickly followed, which Farke saw as the decisive moment. “After the second goal, it was done.” He also commended his players for adapting to Sheffield United’s tactical shifts, noting, “Our shape against the ball was crucial” in maintaining their clean sheet.
Praise for Defensive and Midfield Leaders
The manager was particularly pleased with the influence of his center-backs, describing them as central to the team’s entire approach to the game. He praised their ability to initiate attacks from the back.
“They are the heart of our motor and send the message from the first pass of an attack,” Farke said. He explained that their sharp decision-making and distribution set the tone for the entire team and helped sustain pressure on the opposition.
Farke also gave a special mention to his midfield pairing for the night, Rothwell and Ao Tanaka. He acknowledged their sharp choices on the ball were vital, even while admitting, “You cannot be perfect” over a full match.
Training Ground Routine Pays Off
The opening goal, scored by Pascal Struijk, came directly from a well-worked corner kick, a detail that greatly pleased the manager. Farke revealed that improving set pieces has been a priority for him and his staff since his arrival.
“Since the first day, I insisted that set pieces are important,” Farke explained. He was delighted to see the hard work come to fruition, especially after historical struggles in that area.
The goal was no accident. The low delivery was a planned move practiced in training. “This was what we executed, what we planned,” he confirmed, giving credit to his backroom staff.
Looking Ahead at a Demanding Schedule
With the Championship season being long and demanding, Farke turned his attention to squad depth and potential reinforcements. He admitted the club is still in the market for a free agent to bolster the squad.
“We still need one,” Farke said, pointing to the congested fixture list as a key reason. He elaborated on the type of player he is looking for:
- A physical player who fits the team’s style.
- Someone with experience to guide the squad.
- A versatile player who can cover at least two positions.
The need is particularly pressing with Max Wöber still building match fitness and key midfielders like Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev unavailable. Farke stressed that while Rothwell and Tanaka were excellent, the team cannot depend on just two players for an entire 46-game season. “Relying on tonight’s two would be too much for 46 games,” he concluded.
