On Daniel James, who has missed his past two matches for club and country with a back injury, Farke said: "Since yesterday, he's back on the pitch with us. Right now, we have to wait to see how his body reacts but at least good news with him that he's back in training and he seems to be improving. There's a chance he's involved, yes."

On defender Joe Rodon and his recovery from a hamstring injury that has kept him out for almost two months, Farke said: "Progression, yes. Joe will still miss this game. We spoke at the beginning of this injury and it would last eight to 10 weeks. I think we're at week seven, so he's edging closer. He's doing good progress - it won't be too long until he's back in team training, but not yet."

Farke added that Rodon has been desperate to return, suggesting he had been "close to depression" following a string of injuries. Farke also said the Wales international would play with "one leg" if he could.

On Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick, Farke said he has done "excellently" as a head coach and an ex-player. Farke said he does "not like" and "not understand" the criticism he has faced. The German also jokingly described himself as "half-British" and said that young British coaches, including Carrick, do not deserve the criticism they get.

On the suggestion Leeds were favourites for the match, Farke downplayed that and said that Manchester United's quality of squad will make them tough opponents.

Farke also referenced singer Elvis Pressley when asked about the prospect of recording a first Elland Road win over Manchester United in the Premier League for 24 years: "Actions first was always my mantra instead of speaking too much beforehand. Like the king says, a little less conversation, a little more action."

Farke praised clubs such as Brentford and Brighton for their impressive start to this season, but expects the Premier League table to look different in the final weeks of the campaign: "It's still early days, only six games. After 36, it's a bit more important. I'm sure the table will look different in this instance. But it's no coincidence clubs in this position have done really good work. Brentford have done really well and we've looked to do things right. There's a lot to admire in teams like Brentford and Brighton - we are a different team with different history and different potential. We're not too far away from the glory days, but let's focus on the here and now."