Leeds United are set to travel to Molineux next Saturday afternoon for a Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Both sides are already gearing up for what feels like a crucial early-season encounter, even though only four league games have been played so far.
For Leeds, the pressure lies in becoming more clinical in front of goal. Daniel Farke’s men have drawn blanks in three of their four league fixtures and are now without a victory in their last four matches across all competitions, following a late defeat at Fulham. Wolves’ struggles, however, are even more concerning. Vitor Pereira’s side remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table after losing all four of their opening games without collecting a single point. Their most recent outing at Newcastle offered some positives as they created clear chances, but their lack of finishing allowed Magpies record signing Nick Woltemade to score a decisive debut header and seal the win for Eddie Howe’s side.
Former Newcastle and Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given highlighted the importance of the upcoming meeting on Match of the Day. Reflecting on Wolves’ poor start, he stressed that getting the first win is vital for building confidence and momentum. “It’s a worry when you don’t win games at the start of the season,” he said. “That first victory changes the mood, gives a lift around the training ground. Leeds is a massive fixture, but really they all are when you haven’t won. One victory can spark a run. I like Wolves and I think they’ll be fine – but maybe I’m saying that too soon!”
Meanwhile, Leeds boss Daniel Farke also shared his perspective after the Fulham defeat. He refused to criticise his players, instead pointing out that many of them, such as Wilfried Gnonto, Dan James, Jack Harrison, and Brenden Aaronson, were already part of the squad during their relegation battle two and a half years ago. At that time, he noted, they were dismissed as “hopeless” and “not good enough” for the Premier League, despite excelling at Championship level. Farke emphasised that they still have a point to prove.
He added that no one should expect miracles from this team, even after their impressive Championship campaign. Instead, Leeds must focus on collective effort: staying fit, organised, resilient, and efficient. Above all, Farke underlined the need for defensive solidity and clean sheets, which he sees as even more vital in the Premier League than in the second tier.
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