Norwich City legend Daniel Farke knows his Leeds United side are in for a tough test against the Canaries tomorrow.
Former City head coach Farke takes to the away dugout for the third time in the evening kick-off, hoping to boost the in-form Whites' automatic promotion hopes.
They'll be faced by a side unbeaten at Carrow Road for nearly a year, however, enjoying the momentum of consecutive victories and performances to match under new boss Johannes Hoff Thorup.
The German believes he's up against a different outfit to the one he defeated in last season's play-off semi-final, and that Norwich have benefitted from change.
"They're definitely different," he said. "First of all, they had several changes in key positions. But for me they are a really strong side, they have a good balance between experience and youth.
"Still very experienced players for this level, with (Shane) Duffy, (Kenny) McLean and (Josh) Sargent as well. But also some really good young players with lots of potential, so they seem to be there with a good mix.
"Really good results in the recent games, impressive home form, unbeaten at home and the last home game was an impressive win over Watford. Impressive away win, the first team for ages that was able to win three points at Derby. So they are in a good shape."
Key in that form has been Thorup's possession-based system. Farke praised the style often compared with his own, but affirmed his desire to test it at his old stomping ground.
"They play from their processes with a clear structure, with clear principles, and pretty flexible," he continued. "It's not easy to prepare for what they do, because they have many, many options in terms of what they want to do on the pitch.
"But we also have a good side, and each and every game is difficult. We are travelling respectful, especially regarding our situation at the moment, but also fully aware that we are also in a good shape.
"We want to use this good shape to stabilise and to improve our position further on."
The visitors' mission won't be helped by a growing injury list. Farke delivered a downbeat injury bulletin at his pre-match press conference, headlined by the expected long-term absence of captain Ethan Ampadu.
"With Ethan, sadly I have to confirm it's a serious knee injury, he has damaged his lateral ligament," continued the 47-year-old. "The doctors have recommended conservative treatment, so he doesn't need surgery, but it's realistic to speak about 10 weeks until he can return to team training.
"Sadly at the moment we have a few problems in terms of injuries. I can confirm that Max Wober is set for surgery, he needs a meniscus repair and we expect him to be out for about six weeks. We will also travel without Daniel James, Manor Solomon or Isaac Schmidt.
"You have to expect that there will be injuries, especially with such a relentless schedule. Obviously you are always hoping for a bit of luck, and also that your key players are available.
"Ethan, as our captain, is one of our most important players, if not the most important player. So he's a key piece for our balance between defensive stability and our offence. Of course it's a big blow for us that he's not available, but sometimes you have to adapt to it."
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