Leeds United manager Daniel Farke explained why Dominic Calvert-Lewin started on the bench in the 0-0 draw with Liverpool at Anfield, praising a resilient defensive display that earned a rare clean sheet away to the defending Premier League champions on New Year’s Day.
Leeds, newly promoted this season, limited Liverpool to few clear chances throughout the match, while substitute Calvert-Lewin thought a late strike had secured victory on 70 minutes, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside after a clever finish inside the area.
Calvert-Lewin had arrived at Anfield in prolific league form, with seven goals across the previous six Premier League fixtures, yet Farke opted to name the forward among the substitutes as part of a wider selection
reshuffle during a demanding run of four league games in 10 days.
Explaining that choice, Farke said: "Sometimes, the head has to win over the heart, the Leeds head coach said.We had four Premier League fixtures in 10 days, and I have to trust my whole squad. We know what happened to Dominic in the last few years with injuries. Overall, it was a sign of how much I trust the group. "
Massive point on the road! pic.twitter.com/nHo02Yet65Leeds United (@LUFC) January 1, 2026
Reflecting on the point gained, Farke highlighted the defensive organisation and work rate that secured Leeds a shutout at one of the league’s most demanding venues, stressing that such results are rare for visiting sides at Anfield, especially for a promoted club facing the reigning champions.
Farke said: "It doesn't come along that often that you get a clean sheet and a point at Anfield. We had to defend and suffer, but we are newly promoted and came to the defending champions. There's always a special atmosphere on New Year's Day, and you could feel that from the crowd, but we performed well. The lads defended well and didn't allow clear-cut chances. It's always important to be rock-solid against the ball and keep a clean sheet. "
Goalkeeper Lucas Perri achieved a notable personal and club milestone, becoming the first Leeds goalkeeper to register a clean sheet against Liverpool in any competition since Nigel Martyn in April 1999, and the first to do so at Anfield since John Lukic in April 1995.
Leeds United Liverpool tactics, preparation and James Justin reaction
Defender James Justin echoed Farke’s satisfaction, underlining both the tactical work done in the days before the match and the collective discipline shown across the squad, and felt the coaching staff merited credit alongside the players for a display that restricted Liverpool’s attacking threat.
Justin said: "A good battle and they're a great side, he added.They've not been at their best this season, but you know what quality they have. We did a good job collectively, so a pat on the back for us.There was a lot of emphasis going on a few days before the game, trying out different shapes with different players. Luckily, today, we chose the right tactic and a pat on the back for the management staff. "
The goalless draw extended Calvert-Lewin’s strong spell without adding to the recent scoring run, yet Farke’s rotation approach kept the forward fresh during a packed schedule, while Leeds left Anfield with a valuable point, a long-awaited clean sheet against Liverpool, and growing confidence in the squad’s depth and structure.
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