Dominic Calvert-Lewin among three major Leeds injury doubts as Daniel Farke faces Sunderland reshuffle

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Anton Stach and Noah Okafor are major doubts for Leeds United’s trip to Sunderland, leaving Daniel Farke facing late decisions over all three attacking starters from the draw with Manchester United.

Calvert-Lewin has a bruised foot following a challenge late in that match, while Stach is also struggling with a foot problem. Okafor has an adductor issue.

Farke said the trio had missed several training sessions and none would have been available had the Sunderland game taken place on Friday. Leeds play at the Stadium of Light on Sunday 25 October, with kick-off at 4.30pm GMT.

Calvert-Lewin, Stach and Okafor face late assessments

In Leeds United’s account of Farke’s press conference, carried by Yahoo Sport, the manager made clear that selection would depend on both recovery and readiness to play.

“If the game would be today, all three wouldn’t be available,” he said.

The remaining preparation time gives Leeds a chance to recover some of those options, but being fit enough to travel would not necessarily mean being ready to start or complete the match.

Calvert-Lewin scored Leeds’ equaliser in the 1–1 draw with Manchester United before suffering the late knock. The Yorkshire Post’s report confirms that Farke will leave decisions on the three players until closer to Sunday.

None has yet been definitively ruled out of the Sunderland fixture.

Daniel James returns to contention

There is better news on Daniel James, who has completed his first full week of training after a back problem and is available for selection.

His return gives Farke another wide attacking option, particularly if Okafor cannot play. It does not, however, resolve the separate question of who leads the line if Calvert-Lewin misses out.

Lukas Nmecha is one possible alternative. He replaced Okafor against Manchester United, although Farke has not confirmed his team or committed to a change of shape.

The potential disruption extends beyond replacing one striker. Calvert-Lewin played ahead of Stach and Okafor last weekend, so losing all three would require Leeds to rebuild the attacking unit rather than make a single change.

Joe Rodon also remains in rehabilitation following his hamstring injury.

Sunderland hope to welcome back Brobbey

The hosts could regain an attacking option of their own, with Brian Brobbey expected to return after Sunderland managed his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Regis Le Bris said the striker would be held back from the Europa League game against Lech Poznan with Leeds in mind, as detailed in our Brian Brobbey injury update.

That remains an expected return rather than a confirmed starting place.

For Leeds, the decisive checks concern both availability and minutes: Farke could recover players for the squad while still needing alternatives in his starting XI. Our football on TV guide has the weekend’s viewing information.