Leeds United’s upcoming trip to Wolves is shaping up as a must-win encounter for both clubs after a shaky start to the season. Daniel Farke’s side has collected four points from four matches, which is a reasonable return on paper, but recent performances have left concerns. Their defeat at Craven Cottage once again exposed a familiar weakness—scoring goals. Fortunately, their opponents this weekend share the same problem.
Wolves are facing an even tougher challenge after enduring four straight defeats without a single point. Their situation is made worse by the absence of Jørgen Strand Larsen. The Norwegian striker, who joined permanently from Celta Vigo in the summer for £23 million, was valued at £60 million during failed transfer talks with Newcastle United. Having scored 14 goals last season, he was expected to be Wolves’ main attacking threat. However, alongside the departure of Matheus Cunha to Manchester United, his Achilles injury has left manager Vitor Pereira short of firepower.
Pereira confirmed after the Newcastle defeat that Strand Larsen’s recovery requires patience and cannot be rushed, describing it as a “day by day” situation. Injury specialist Ben Dinnery has since ruled him out of the Leeds clash, predicting a return the following week.
For Leeds, this presents a crucial opportunity. They must take full advantage of Wolves’ lack of goals and Strand Larsen’s absence. Securing three points at Molineux is essential to avoid slipping into the relegation battle, especially with a challenging fixture list looming in November and December. Still, while Leeds might view Wolves as vulnerable, the hosts could easily look at Leeds’ own struggles and see them as equally beatable.
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