Key Points
- Derby County host Leeds United in the FA Cup third round at Pride Park Stadium on Sunday 11 January 2026.
- Midfielder Lewis Travis has given his pre‑match thoughts ahead of the tie, focusing on preparation and belief.
- Leeds United, a Premier League side, are expected to field a relatively strong team against Championship club Derby County.
Derby (The Leeds Times) January 10, 2026 – Derby County midfielder Lewis Travis has delivered his pre‑match assessment ahead of the Rams’ 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup third‑round home tie against Leeds United, as the Championship side prepare to host their Premier League visitors at Pride Park Stadium on Sunday lunchtime.
Derby County will face Leeds United in a televised third‑round fixture kicking off at 12:00 on 11 January 2026, with the tie offering John Eustace’s side a high‑profile opportunity to test themselves against top‑flight opposition in front of their home support at Pride Park Stadium.
How important is the FA Cup tie between Derby County and Leeds United?
The third‑round meeting carries significance for both clubs, with Derby County seeking to build momentum in a season in which they are competing in the Championship, and Leeds United looking to progress in the FA Cup while balancing their Premier League commitments, according to match previews and club coverage of the fixture.
As reported by club media staff of Derby County, Lewis Travis shared his pre‑match thoughts on the challenge posed by Leeds United and the importance of approaching the tie with intensity and focus, as Derby aim to match the physical and technical demands of facing a higher‑division opponent.
What is the wider context around Derby County’s preparations?
Pre‑match coverage notes that Derby County enter the contest as underdogs against a Leeds side operating in the Premier League, with the Rams seeking a positive reaction and a strong performance in front of a home crowd that will view the tie as an opportunity for a notable FA Cup result.
How are Leeds United expected to approach the third‑round fixture?
According to reporting by FansNetwork on Leeds United team news and manager Daniel Farke’s comments, Leeds are expected to field a fairly strong side despite the congested fixture schedule, with the club indicating a desire to remain competitive in the FA Cup while managing player workloads.
What could this FA Cup match mean for Lewis Travis and Derby County?
The tie against Leeds United offers Lewis Travis and his Derby County team‑mates a chance to measure themselves against Premier League opposition, potentially enhancing confidence and cohesion if they can deliver a disciplined and energetic display at Pride Park Stadium in front of home supporters.
A positive performance or result against Leeds United could provide Derby County with increased belief for the remainder of their Championship campaign, while also offering the possibility of further FA Cup progress and the financial and sporting benefits that accompany a cup run.
