Leeds United injury 'question mark' confirmed vs Chelsea after Brighton warm-up complaint
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke spoke to the media ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup trip to Chelsea.
Leeds United winger Daniel James faces a late fitness test ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup trip to Chelsea.
The Whites head to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night for their Carabao Cup third round clash. They beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the previous round and are unbeaten in four games across all competitions.
James was an unused substitute in the most recent clash, a 1-1 draw at Brighton on Saturday. Speaking on Tuesday morning, manager Daniel Farke confirmed the Welshman had complained of back and hamstring problems prior to kick off on the south coast.
“Joe Rodon is obviously a long-term injury,” Farke said when asked about team news. “A little question mark behind Daniel James, he reported in the warm-up at Brighton some issues with his back and hamstring.
“The scan results were good, no new injury. He just had an individual session today which was okay. We have two more sessions, one this afternoon and a light session tomorrow morning.
“If he comes through this then he’s available. Little question mark but carefully optimistic.”
James endured a torrid 2025/26 campaign due to injury and had recently spoken of feeling back towards his best physically. Farke retains hope the winger will be available to face Chelsea.
“Important for DJ that he had a proper pre-season and found confidence in his body,” he added. “First appearances were promising, I liked his performances.
“A little setback of course is not good for the head, I think it will give him reassurance that the scan results were really good. Perhaps to do with a long trip to Brighton with some delays, sometimes this can be a bit complicated in terms of the back.
“Small details can make a big influence on their body. We can’t risk any injury with travel routines so have to do it in the most professional way. For DJ, it’s good he has the assurance there’s no new injury.”