Leeds United's preparations for their crucial Premier League clash with Manchester United have been dealt a significant blow, with manager Daniel Farke confirming a lengthy injury list ahead of Monday's high-stakes fixture.

The most severe news concerns key duo Anton Stach and Joe Rodon, who are both sidelined with ankle ligament injuries. Farke indicated a return in May is the realistic target, dealing a major setback to Leeds' defensive and midfield stability during the season's critical run-in.

Adding to the selection headache, winger Daniel James has been ruled out of facing his former club due to an adductor strain. The availability of several other first-team players remains in doubt, with Jaka Bijol (knock), Noah Okafor (back), and Gabriel Gudmundsson (groin) all racing against time to be fit for the Old Trafford trip.

"Not the best news today," Farke admitted, highlighting the scale of the challenge. He remains hopeful the extra days before the Monday night kickoff will allow some of the doubtful players to recover, emphasizing the need for a full squad in such a demanding fixture.

This injury crisis arrives at the worst possible moment for Leeds, who face the relentless pressure of the Premier League calendar. The absence of core players like Rodon and Stach will test the squad's depth and resilience, demanding others step up in one of English football's most intense rivalries.