Daniel Farke has delivered an encouraging fitness update ahead of Leeds United’s Premier League clash with Brentford at Elland Road, with Ilia Gruev, Gabriel Gudmundsson and Willy Gnonto all making progress.
Leeds head into their first home league fixture of the season after opening the campaign with a 1-0 away victory over Nottingham Forest.
Brentford also made an impressive start, beating Tottenham Hotspur 3-0 at home, setting up an intriguing early-season meeting on Sunday.
Gruev closing in after long-term injury
Gruev has now completed his second week of team training following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Farke confirmed the Bulgaria international is continuing to make steady progress towards full fitness.
“Yes, Ilia, after his long-term injury right now is in the second week of training together with the team,” Farke said.
“So, he is edging closer and closer.”
The midfielder's return would strengthen Farke's options as Leeds adjust to life back in the Premier League.
Gudmundsson and Gnonto return to training
There was further positive news regarding Gudmundsson and Gnonto.
Both players are expected to return to team training ahead of the Brentford game, although Leeds will monitor how they respond before deciding whether either can feature on Sunday.
“Also, some good news with Gabi Gudmundsson and Willy Gnonto,” Farke explained.
“As it stands, they will join us this afternoon also for the first time after their injuries in team training. Then, we have to wait how their body reacts.”
With only two days before the match, Farke will be careful about rushing either player back too quickly.
Nevertheless, the manager suggested his squad is in increasingly strong shape, adding: “As it stands, all players are available.”
Leeds and Brentford arrive after winning starts
Sunday's contest brings together two teams who enjoyed ideal opening weekends.
Leeds earned three points on the road with their 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, providing Farke's newly-promoted side with an immediate confidence boost.
Brentford made an even more emphatic statement by beating Tottenham 3-0 at home.
Leeds will now look to build on their opening result in front of their own supporters at Elland Road, with Farke potentially having several returning players available to strengthen his options.
Key Points
- Daniel Farke has provided positive updates on three Leeds players ahead of the Brentford game.
- Ilia Gruev is into his second week of full team training following a long-term injury.
- Gabriel Gudmundsson and Willy Gnonto are returning to team training, although their reactions will be monitored.
- Leeds opened their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.
- Brentford arrive at Elland Road after an impressive 3-0 victory over Tottenham.
What’s Next?
Leeds will assess Gudmundsson and Gnonto following their return to team training before Farke makes his final selection for Sunday.
Both sides arrive with three points already secured, giving Leeds the opportunity to build on their encouraging start when Premier League football returns to Elland Road.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *