Leeds United will travel to West Ham United for an FA Cup quarter-final match, with manager Daniel Farke stating he is a big believer in cup competitions and that Leeds is taking the West Ham game very seriously. Farke said Leeds wants to field a strong starting lineup for the FA Cup match but will not risk players with physical problems. However, Farke also noted that the Premier League is Leeds United's priority, reflecting the team's focus on league survival.
Leeds United has not won any of its past six Premier League games, with four draws and two losses, but is four points and three places ahead of West Ham United in the Premier League table with a significantly superior goal difference. Historically, in 2013, Wigan Athletic beat Manchester City 1-0 to win the FA Cup but were relegated from the Premier League three days later. According to The Guardian - Football, Roberto Martinez described how teams can bounce back from relegation, while cup glory lasts a lifetime.
A real example of football's reality – the highs, then the lows. But teams can bounce back from relegation; cup glory lasts a lifetime.
Farke, who holds an MA in economics and a diploma in sporting directorship, added that Leeds is in the driving seat in terms of league position and on a good path in the Premier League. It is unclear whether Farke will ultimately prioritize the FA Cup or Premier League survival in his team selection and strategy.