Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground (15:00 BST).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
- Farke emphasised Leeds' "really good pre-season" but added: "Right now, the real stuff starts and we're looking forward to it."
- He confirmed Willy Gnonto and Gabriel Gudmundsson will miss the game with respective hamstring issues, but he hopes to have Gnonto "back in team training soon".
- Asked what his aspirations for the season are, Farke replied: "It's important to start as well as possible and keep in mind where we are coming from and what the past has told us. The past has told us a second solid season after promotion is difficult because the expectations are a bit higher and maybe players don't have a point to prove any more. It's a very dangerous year so our first and foremost target is to achieve 40 points and to make sure we again earn the right to stay in the best league in the world. If there is more to achieve then it's step by step - but we stay humble and realistic and know that a difficult season lies ahead."
- On Leeds' transfer window so far: "I won't speak about positions and profiles. I'm very happy with our transfer window - we've done excellent business so far. I am happy with our group. I will push to the last day to get the best possible squad. This is what this club deserves."
- He is happy with Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu signing new deals: "We will try to also keep our best players. It is definitely good news with Ampadu, Rodon and Jayden. So far, so good - but we will push until the end. Maybe more in the next few days - let's see."
- On new signing Nico Elvedi: "It was his first time with us yesterday. I don't have too much to say - his CV speaks for himself. He has played 11 years for one club, which shows his loyalty. He played a quarter-final in the World Cup and looked rock solid. Nico comes ready for this challenge and with excitement. He's very flexible in the position he plays. He can play at right and left centre-back. He gives us cover in a different positions. We thought that, next to his other qualities, made him a perfect fit for us."
- Farke was asked about his relationship with the club's owners, 49ers Enterprises: "We are speaking on a daily basis about what we have to do. It is a big challenge this second year for us. We have to make sure that, with all the excitement, we stay humble and do our business. Actions speak louder than words. We want to make sure we have a successful season and are not too carried away with too much optimism and excitement. We are on the same page and happy with the business so far - but we won't fall asleep."
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[BBC]
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