‘Crazy things can happen’ – Leeds United boss Daniel Farke issues warning and Manor Solomon update after win
Farke Urges Caution Despite Leeds’ Crucial Win Over Oxford
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has reminded his players of the demanding nature of the Championship, despite their narrow 1-0 win over Oxford United pushing them closer to Premier League promotion.
Manor Solomon’s first-half goal at the Kassam Stadium proved decisive, helping Leeds maintain their spot at the top of the table. With only a few games remaining, automatic promotion could be secured as soon as Easter Monday (April 21). But Farke isn’t getting ahead of himself.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Farke said:
“I’ve experienced this crazy league enough to know how unpredictable it can be. We’re in great form—three wins in a row during this crucial stretch is fantastic—but nothing’s finished yet. Every point still has to be earned.”
He stressed the need for consistency and mental strength, adding:
“You need to be relentless because this league is relentless. The competition is strong and resilient. We have to keep pushing with the same focus and intensity, and if we do, we’ll have something to celebrate.”
Oxford, who recently defeated Sheffield United on their home turf, didn’t make it easy for Leeds. The Whites, however, rose to the occasion, with Joe Rodon delivering a standout defensive performance.
Farke praised his backline, particularly in dealing with Oxford’s long-throw threat from Will Vaulks:
“Joe Rodon had to win about 27 headers today. We’re not the most physically dominant team, but we handled it really well. Massive credit to the whole defensive unit.”
He also eased any injury fears surrounding Solomon, confirming the winger was just suffering from cramp in the final minutes.
Looking ahead to their next match, Farke emphasized the importance of Monday’s clash at Elland Road against Stoke City:
“We have the chance to create something really special. We’ll need our fans behind us—we need that incredible Elland Road atmosphere to carry us.”
Rowett Reflects on Oxford’s Strong Second-Half Response
Oxford boss Gary Rowett acknowledged Leeds’ control in the first half but was proud of how his side responded after the break.
“In the first half, Leeds made life difficult for us, but I thought we came out and competed much more aggressively in the second,” Rowett said. “We didn’t create loads of clear chances, but we piled on the pressure, and Rodon was immense in dealing with everything we threw in.”
He also pointed to Leeds’ quality in the decisive moment:
“We lost our shape once, they played a perfect ball through, delivered the cross, and scored. That’s what top sides do—if you switch off for just a second, they’ll punish you.”
Despite the result, Rowett was pleased with his team’s effort:
“Even though we’re disappointed with the result, I’m incredibly proud of how we responded in the second half.”
