Leeds United face Burnley without Gudmundsson as Okafor and Bijol remain doubts

Key facts

• Gabriel Gudmundsson ruled out with serious hamstring injury, will miss at least two games.
• Noah Okafor a doubt with calf problem; Jaka Bijol dealing with hip flexor issue.
• Burnley have no fresh team news since Scott Parker's departure on Thursday.
• Josh Cullen, Connor Roberts, Jordan Beyer out for Burnley; Hannibal Mejbri and Axel Tuanzebe could return.
• Leeds are five unbeaten in the Premier League ahead of Friday's match.
• Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored only one goal in eight league matches, missing eight of nine big chances.
• Zian Flemming has scored in each of his last three away matches for Burnley.

Injury concerns cloud Leeds' preparations

Leeds United return to Premier League action on Friday evening, welcoming Burnley to Elland Road under the lights. The Whites are five unbeaten in the league, but their momentum faces a test after an FA Cup semi-final at the weekend left key players nursing injuries. Manager Daniel Farke confirmed that left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson has suffered a serious hamstring injury. "He will definitely miss the game on Friday and also, as it stands, the Tottenham game," Farke said. The club hopes Gudmundsson can return for one of the last two matches of the season. Noah Okafor, who has scored three goals and supplied an assist in his last three matches, is a doubt after taking a knock to his calf. Jaka Bijol is also questionable with hip flexor problems. "I hope to have them both available but I can't tell you now if it's possible," Farke added.

Burnley's squad uncertainty deepens after Parker's exit

Burnley arrive with their own injury concerns, compounded by the departure of manager Scott Parker on Thursday. The club has offered no fresh team news since his exit, leaving the squad's availability unclear. Defenders Josh Cullen, Connor Roberts and Jordan Beyer remain sidelined. However, midfielders Hannibal Mejbri and Axel Tuanzebe could return after missing last weekend's defeat to Manchester City. The uncertainty adds to the challenge for Burnley, who are fighting to climb the table.

Key players in focus: Calvert-Lewin's struggles, Flemming's away form

Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has endured a difficult run, scoring only one goal in eight league matches — a penalty in Gameweek 33. He has missed eight of his nine big chances in that period, a statistic that underscores his recent inefficiency in front of goal. In contrast, Burnley's Zian Flemming has been prolific on the road, scoring in each of his last three away matches. His form could prove crucial as Burnley seek to exploit Leeds' defensive vulnerabilities.

Leeds' unbeaten run faces acid test

Leeds' five-match unbeaten streak in the league has lifted them clear of the relegation zone, but the injuries to Gudmundsson, Okafor and Bijol threaten to disrupt their rhythm. The absence of Gudmundsson, in particular, leaves a gap on the left flank that Burnley may target. Farke's side will rely on their depth to cope, but the quick turnaround from the FA Cup semi-final adds to the physical demands. Friday's match is the first of a crucial run-in that includes games against Tottenham and other relegation rivals.

What the numbers say: FPL insights and betting trends

Fantasy Premier League managers have been active this week, with Noah Okafor among the most-bought midfielders despite his injury doubt. He has amassed 31 points in his last three matches, making him a high-risk, high-reward option. Betting markets reflect the uncertainty: under 2.5 goals is priced at 5/4 with Sky Bet, a nod to the potential for a cautious, low-scoring affair. Burnley's recent away form — four of their last five road games have gone under 2.5 goals — supports that narrative.

Outlook: A pivotal clash in the relegation battle

With both teams near the bottom of the table, Friday's match carries significant weight in the fight for survival. Leeds have the advantage of playing before Tottenham, offering a chance to apply pressure on their rivals. Burnley, meanwhile, will look to build on Flemming's away form and exploit any Leeds fatigue. The absence of Scott Parker on the Burnley bench adds an element of unpredictability. For Leeds, the fitness of Okafor and Bijol will be monitored until kick-off. A draw may suit both sides, but the stakes are high enough that neither can afford to settle.

The bottom line

• Gabriel Gudmundsson is out with a serious hamstring injury, missing at least two games for Leeds.
• Noah Okafor and Jaka Bijol are doubts for Leeds; Okafor has been in fine form with three goals and an assist in three matches.
• Burnley have no fresh team news after Scott Parker's departure; Josh Cullen, Connor Roberts and Jordan Beyer are out.
• Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored just one goal in eight league matches, missing eight big chances.
• Zian Flemming has scored in each of his last three away games for Burnley.
• Leeds are five unbeaten in the league but face a tough test against a Burnley side fighting for points.