Daniel Farke insists it’s ‘unfair’ to label his young Leeds United side as favourites to win promotion after another summer of upheaval at Elland Road.
The club saw several big-name departures this summer, while Farke was able to bring in eight new faces to the squad, and welcome back Brenden Aaronson and Max Wober from loan spells. Losing key stars such as Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Georginio Rutter was always likely to have a huge impact on Leeds, but Farke has been pleased with how his new-look squad has responded.
There is still a very youthful feel to the Whites set-up, and with the likes of Burnley, West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield United and Middlesbrough experienced campaigners, Farke has played down the favourites tag the bookmakers have bestowed on his side, although that does not mean he is not confident of success.
“After so many changes and all the players we have had go and come in, we have an exciting group,” he explained. “But when you have such a young group together, it would be unfair to put the burden of being the big favourite on their shoulders.
“We have a good group, I believe in this group and we can be right there in the mix, but it is unfair to give us the label of big favourites.
“This season I would say in the away games we are unbeaten so far, eight points so far and two really different away games with wins. Two tough opponents away with draws. It is nearly perfect and a really good outcome. Our home games our performances have been on a really good level.”
Leeds’ credentials will be tested on Friday night when they travel to Wearside to face league leaders Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats have surprised many under Regis Le Bris, and Farke has been impressed with what they’ve achieved so far.
