Leeds United head into their Championship clash against Norwich City tonight without several key players, most notably captain Ethan Ampadu, who is sidelined with a knee injury.
This will mark the first time since his arrival in July 2023 that Ampadu will miss a league fixture for the Whites. The versatile Wales international sustained the injury in last Saturday’s 3-0 win over Coventry City and is expected to be out of action until January. Ampadu, who had made 56 consecutive starts in the Championship for Leeds, tried to play through the injury but was forced off in the 41st minute.
Speaking ahead of the match, Leeds manager Daniel Farke provided an update on Ampadu’s condition. “Ethan has damaged his lateral ligament, but the doctors have recommended conservative treatment, so he doesn’t need surgery,” Farke said. “It’s a big blow for us, but it’s something we have to adapt to.”
Ampadu began his career at Exeter City, making his senior debut at just 15 years old. In 2017, he moved to Chelsea, where he spent time developing but found first-team opportunities limited. Ampadu gained experience through loan spells, notably at RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, Sheffield United in the Premier League, and Venezia in Serie A. During this time, he also established himself in the Wales national team, becoming a key player.
While the injury is a setback for Leeds, Farke’s emphasis on adapting reflects the team’s need to stay resilient as they aim for a fifth win in six games. His absence raises a crucial question: who will Daniel Farke turn to in midfield? Japan international Ao Tanaka replaced Ampadu during the Coventry match and is likely to make his full debut tonight. Tanaka’s development has been encouraging, with several promising appearances as a substitute, and his performance will be under close scrutiny at Carrow Road.
Farke also addressed other injury concerns within the squad, with Max Wöber, Daniel James, and Isaac Schmidt all ruled out for the match. Wöber, in particular, is set to undergo knee surgery this week after struggling with a persistent cyst on his meniscus. Farke explained, “A cyst has formed directly on the meniscus, and they will probably remove it. Max tried to recover without surgery, but the pain returned immediately.” Wöber’s absence adds to Leeds’ defensive woes, with the Austrian centre-back having made just one appearance this season.
Wöber’s surgery is expected to take place in Innsbruck, and while the exact timeline for his return is uncertain, he will certainly miss Austria’s upcoming international fixtures. Austria’s national team manager, Ralf Rangnick, confirmed Wöber’s exclusion from the squad for matches against Kazakhstan and Norway, citing the need for surgery. “Last week they tried to treat it conventionally again, but Max felt pain immediately, so he’s now decided to have the operation,” Rangnick said.
Despite these injury setbacks, Leeds are in good form and will look to maintain momentum against Norwich. Farke’s return to Carrow Road adds an intriguing dimension to the contest, as the German manager faces his former club for the third time since leaving in 2021. While there will be some familiar emotions in play, Farke’s focus will be on maintaining his side’s upward trajectory and navigating a busy schedule of three matches in six days.
With injuries mounting, Farke may be tempted to rotate the squad, but Leeds’ recent run of form may prompt him to stick with the core of his starting eleven. Forward Joel Piroe has been in fine form, making a strong case for more starts, while the manager may consider giving Mateo Joseph a rest. However, Ampadu’s absence will likely force the manager to prioritise stability, particularly in midfield.
Writer’s View
Leeds United’s injury concerns, particularly the loss of Ampadu, present a significant challenge as they push for promotion. Ampadu has been the backbone of Leeds’ midfield, and his absence will undoubtedly test the depth of Daniel Farke’s squad. Ao Tanaka, who has shown glimpses of promise, will have big shoes to fill. Farke’s confidence in Tanaka suggests the Japanese international is ready for the responsibility, but much will depend on how quickly he can adapt to a starting role.
Max Wöber’s injury adds to the defensive strain, and with several key players missing, Leeds will need to rely on squad depth to navigate the coming weeks. Farke’s ability to manage resources, keep morale high, and maintain momentum will be critical as Leeds approach the busy festive period. The next few matches could define their season, and how they cope with these injuries will be crucial to their promotion ambitions.
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