Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke brushed aside talk that a FA Cup semi‑final could derail his club’s Premier League survival push. After a dramatic penalty shootout win over West Ham lifted Leeds to their first last‑four appearance in 39 years, he insisted the triumph should inject confidence rather than distraction. The side sit three points clear of relegation with seven games left.

Farke has banned any discussion of the cup run within the squad, warning that focus must remain on the upcoming league fixtures: a trip to Manchester United on Monday, followed by games against Wolves on 18 April and Bournemouth on 22 April. He believes the “winning feeling” revived against West Ham – a rarity in 14 league matches since Christmas – will benefit the team.

Financial stakes underline Farke’s stance: a 17th‑place Premier League finish guarantees more than £10 million in merit payments, dwarfing the £2.1 million awarded to FA Cup winners. Yet he pledged Leeds will chase Wembley glory without using it as an excuse for league form. The manager’s message is clear – seize the cup opportunity while safeguarding the club’s top‑flight future.