Leeds United faces fresh injury doubts as Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggles ahead of Sunderland match

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has revealed that striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a major doubt for this weekend's Premier League fixture against Sunderland. The Whites are preparing to travel to the Stadium of Light on Sunday, but their preparations have been complicated by late fitness concerns across the squad.

Calvert-Lewin scored the equalizing goal in Leeds' recent 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Elland Road last weekend. However, the England international sustained a foot bruise after a late challenge from Diogo Dalot and missed training sessions during the week, leaving his availability for Sunday in serious question.

Farke addressed reporters at Thorp Arch on Friday lunchtime, explaining the extent of the squad's physical issues. "Rodon is still out," Farke stated, discussing Joe Rodon's ongoing absence. Regarding Calvert-Lewin and teammate Anton Stach, who is dealing with a painful foot problem, the manager noted they are both struggling and currently remain question marks.

Noah Okafor also faces a late fitness test due to an adductor issue. Farke admitted that if the match were played immediately, none of the three players would be available because they missed training. However, he expressed optimism that extra recovery time over the next two days could help clear them to play.

Being without Calvert-Lewin, Stach, and Okafor would present a significant hurdle for Leeds as they look to build on their seventh-place position in the Premier League table. Farke may be forced to rework his attacking lineup if his key players fail to recover in time for the weekend encounter.

Should Calvert-Lewin be ruled out, Leeds will rely on backup options such as Lukas Nmecha and Harry Wilson to step up. Farke expressed confidence in both players, noting that Nmecha has a strong record for a substitute striker and praising Wilson's work rate and adaptation to the team's tactical style following his summer arrival.

Leeds enters the fixture against Sunderland looking to secure all three points against a side currently sitting at the bottom of the table. While the Black Cats face their own roster challenges and a congested schedule involving European competition, Farke's side must navigate their own fitness hurdles to maintain their recent momentum.