soccer

Farke on league 'priority', Birmingham and Premier League sackings

Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has been speaking to the media before Sunday's FA Cup game against Birmingham City at St Andrew's (kick-off 12:00 GMT).

Here are the key lines from his news conference:

  • Leeds boss Daniel Farke confirmed "achieving survival is a priority" for his side and they "will not risk any player who has any doubts" for their fourth round tie against Birmingham City.
  • Anton Stach and Pascal Struijk will not make a return to the matchday squad as both players are yet to fully complete their rehab. Although striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin "is back" after suffering from an illness, said Farke.
  • Although the league is the "priority" for the west Yorkshire side, Farke said "we will not take any risks" when facing Birmingham, who sit one point outside the play-off positions in the Championship. Farke added: "It is not like we want to go out of this cup on purpose. I am a big believer in cup competitions."
  • On Sunday's FA Cup opponents, Farke said: "I like the group of players, real quality players, and they definitely have a chance [of being promoted]." City have not lost in any competition since New Year's Day - an unbeaten run of eight games - and Farke believes "the club has lots of potential" as they aim to be promoted back to the Premier League.
  • Farke also gave his thoughts on the sacking of Premier League managers Thomas Frank and Sean Dyche: "Especially when you have a proven manager like Thomas, who has done so well for Brentford, he is not just a good coach, but he is a great human being. For Sean Dyche, a proven record in the fight against relegation. The outside feeling is he gave stability after a crazy start for Nottingham."

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