ILLAN MESLIER CRITICISM, PROMOTION PRESSURE AND FOUR FITNESS CONCERNS ON DANIEL FARKE'S AGENDA

Daniel Farke faces the media on Thursday lunchtime for his pre-match press conference. The Leeds United manager will take questions from television, radio, print and online journalists at Thorp Arch ahead of their penultimate Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers.

The Whites will head to the capital in good spirits following Monday's morale-boosting win at Middlesbrough. Here is a run-down of some of the main topics on the agenda for the boss to address at the training ground today.

Injury and illness latest

It is a quick turnaround for United and Farke will no doubt be asked to provide a comprehensive team news update. We know Daniel James is definitely out, having damaged his rib cartilage and torn a stomach muscle last time out. James faces an uphill task to be fit for the final day clash with Southampton.

Defender Joe Rodon (calf) picked up an injury at the Riverside Stadium. Will the Tottenham loanee be involved?

Left-back Junior Firpo and Jaidon Anthony have recently suffered from a sickness bug. Firpo revealed he came close to throwing up in the second half against Boro. Will Firpo and Anthony be available for selection?

Farke expected Connor Roberts to sit-out their away double-header with Boro and QPR. Is that still the case?

Illan Meslier criticism

The goalkeeper copped his fair share of flak from the terraces after the Middlesbrough thriller. Some fans called into question his positioning and decision-making for Boro's first and third goals.

Meslier has recorded an impressive 18 clean sheets in the Whites' promotion push. What has Farke made of the Frenchman's form and development? Does Meslier still retain his full backing going into two critical matches?

Crunch time

The finish line is in sight for United, Leicester City and Ipswich Town. Farke's men are averaging over two points per game, a feat that would normally guarantee promotion/the title.

But this has been extraordinary season. The two four clubs have looked a cut above the rest in 2024.

How many more points does Farke think the team require from their final two matches to clinch automatic promotion? Can Farke see there being another twist in the battle to go up? Are United now scrapping it out with Ipswich for second spot following Leicester's emphatic win over Southampton?

QPR's attacking threat

Ilias Chair is their main man. The diminutive Morocco international is the creative spark in the machine and has recaptured his best form under head coach Marti Cifuentes.

How will United nullify Chair's threat? The R's are four points above the drop zone as they prepare for their final home match of the season.

2024-04-25T06:04:25Z dg43tfdfdgfd