Farke explains Leeds United star’s absence in draw with Sunderland

Daniel Farke revealed Nico Elvedi was forced to miss Leeds United’s goalless draw with Sunderland after falling ill overnight.

With Joe Rodon already sidelined, Elvedi’s late withdrawal left Leeds short of options at the back ahead of a difficult afternoon at the Stadium of Light.

“Joe Rodon is out anyway,” Farke said.

“Nico Elvedi missed the game overnight due to illness and felt unwell. He had to travel back.”

Farke also felt the difficult weather conditions affected the quality of the game and praised his players for adapting.

“And then weather conditions where you could hardly predict the curve of the ball,” he said.

“It was one of those days where you have to accept that you can’t shine that much football-wise.

“It’s more or less to dig in and grind out a result and fight for second balls and show steel.

“And this is what we did today.”