Farke reveals pre-game issues while again backing his 'polarising' player

Leeds United's preparations for West Ham were more difficult than Daniel Farke let on before the game so there was relief and pride after they "dug in" for a 2-1 win.

- by Graham Smyth

Farke's men were well worth their 2-0 halftime lead, which came thanks to Brenden Aaronson's early goal and a Joe Rodon header from Sean Longstaff's corner.

A wildly open first half brought further chances for Leeds to bury the game but they lacked composure at the crucial moment, while West Ham brought one save from Lucas Perri and had a goal chalked off for offside.

The second half was attritional stuff with Leeds conceding more and more possession and territory, yet defending their box stoutly.

Cross after cross was headed away until stoppage time when Mateus Fernandes was allowed to ghost into the area and flick a Jarrod Bowen cross into the far corner.

Leeds saw out the final couple of minutes comfortably enough, however, to celebrate a vital victory and three points that move them seven clear of the Hammers.