Why Noah Okafor isn't in Leeds United squad vs Bournemouth as late issue revealed
The winger was absent from the Leeds United squad at Bournemouth.
Leeds United winger Noah Okafor will miss this afternoon’s meeting with Bournemouth due to a late adductor issue.
Okafor was a surprise absence from the Whites squad named at Bournemouth for today’s Premier League clash. The winger was struggling with adductor problems in the build-up to last weekend’s trip to Sunderland but featured off the bench.
Daniel Farke revealed Okafor had enjoyed a good week of training in the build-up to Bournemouth but when the team was confirmed at 1.45pm, he was absent. The YEP understands his omission is due to a similar issue.
Okafor felt something in his adductor during Leeds’ final training session on Friday before flying down to the south coast. Club medical staff will assess the Swiss international in the coming days.
With Okafor unavailable, Farke turned to Daniel James for a first Premier League start of the season. The Welshman hadn’t even been in the squad for the past three weeks, owing in part to a back problem.
Speaking in his pre-game press conference on Thursday, Farke urged namesake James to keep working hard in training and take his chance when it arrives. That chance has come today.
“Crucial he stays fit and can train with consistency,” the Whites boss said. “When he has a period in and out, it’s difficult and this was a bit the case earlier in the season. Second full training week, important for him every day for his belief in his body.
“Just being available is not enough, have to earn your spot in the squad. Already in my mind for the last game because he’s improving but a decision for other players in his position like Jean-Matteo, who also trained on a good level.
“James has to impress in training and wait for his chance, then use it when he’s back in the squad. Love DJ as a person but have to be fair.”