Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is anticipating a fierce battle when his side travels to face Millwall at the New Den on Wednesday evening.
Farke is well aware of the intensity Millwall will bring, especially with their recent impressive form in the Championship. The Lions, led by Neil Harris, have enjoyed a strong run with only one loss in their last eight matches and three consecutive wins, including a narrow 1-0 victory over Burnley. Known for their defensive strength, Millwall has conceded just one goal in their last five games and currently sit seventh in the table as they eye a play-off spot.
For Farke, maintaining focus and discipline will be essential. A win in London could propel Leeds to the top of the Championship, depending on Sunderland’s result against Preston North End. However, Farke is cautious of the specific threats Millwall pose, particularly from set-pieces, a key strength for the Lions.
Farke’s Respect for Millwall’s Physicality
Despite Millwall’s reputation as a physical side, Farke appreciates the competitive edge they bring to the game, viewing it as an intrinsic part of the sport. He remains confident that his players can rise to the occasion, navigating the charged atmosphere while staying focused on the objective.
“When you see the games, they are competitive,” Farke stated in his pre-match briefing. “I’ve no complaints – it’s why we enjoy this game. As long as it does not cross the line, it’s why we love this sport. Both sides will try everything. It will be a spicy atmosphere, but you rise to such occasions. We need to be cool in the head with fire in the heart.”
Farke recognizes that the energetic atmosphere at the New Den will demand resilience and mental toughness from his squad. Millwall’s fans are known for creating a challenging environment for visiting teams, something the Leeds manager believes his side can thrive on if they channel the energy in the right way.
Writer’s View
This match offers Leeds United a valuable test of character and adaptability in a high-stakes environment. Farke’s focus on maintaining “cool heads” with “fire in the heart” underscores his awareness of the mental edge required to thrive in the Championship. As Millwall pushes for a play-off position, Leeds will need both resilience and strategic finesse to solidify their standing at the top end of the table.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
