Leeds United in semi-final play off action - a win will get them to Wembley

Leeds United need a win against Norwich to make the final at Wembley next week

Leeds United stadium
Author: By PA Sport Staff and Katie Lyons Published 16th May 2024

Leeds boss Daniel Farke has urged his players to keep cool heads in the return leg of their Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final against Norwich.

A white-hot atmosphere is expected at Elland Road tonight, when the two sides bid to take a big step towards the Premier League by reaching the final later this month.

Farke, whose side drew 0-0 in the first game against his former club on Sunday, said: "I think it will definitely be an amazing atmosphere, probably much whiter than yellow.

"I think it will be a pretty, pretty impressive atmosphere on Thursday.

"But we also have to make sure that we are again not overexcited. So to show a good mental strength in this moment will be also quite important."

Leeds were well placed to win automatic promotion straight back to the top flight before appearing to freeze under the pressure during the run-in.

They lost four of their last six games of the regular season, allowing both Leicester and Ipswich to overcome their own wobbles and hold their nerves when it mattered.

Farke's side are heavy favourites to meet either Southampton or West Brom at Wembley on May 26, but the German has warned against his side going gung-ho in front of their fervent fans.

"Everything is still possible," he said. "Norwich is just a really good side and also a threat on the counter-attack.

"If you're too greedy and open too many spaces, then they could punish you. We have to make sure that we find a good fine margin."

Leeds remained unbeaten at Elland Road this season until their final two home matches, which they lost to Blackburn and Southampton, and Farke concedes the tie hangs in the balance.

He added: "Obviously we like to play at home, there's no doubt about this. We have overall a really good home record in the season, but it's no guarantee.

"So still 50-50 and then both sides have the same chance to earn their spot in the final.

"I'm pleased with the performance (in the first leg) also overall happy with the result but nothing is done yet.

"So it's still a tight game and we have to make sure that we keep going because Norwich are really, really dangerous."

Leeds will still be without Patrick Bamford (knee), while Willy Gnonto is expected to be fit after being withdrawn in the first leg due to bruising.

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