Farke on Gruev's return, Calvert-Lewin's England recall and Palace

Farke gave an update on Ilian Gruev, who has been sidelined since May with a knee injury: "After this long-term injury it was important to get his first minutes in the under-21 game. He played nearly 90 minutes and it was good for his confidence and his body. He is available for the weekend."

However, he confirmed Harry Wilson has picked up a quad injury that is likely to mean he also misses Wales' games during the international break. Joe Rodon also remains out.

Farke was asked if he could provide any update on a potential new contract after managing director Robbie Evans told BBC Sport last week that he and the club are "on the same page": "No news from my side. I spoke at the end of last season long, detailed, open and honest about the situation. I don't want to make a weekly soap opera of it. No-one wants a manager who is always talking about his future and his contract."

On Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fine early-season form earning him a recall to the England squad: "Fully deserved. A perfect start to the new season. He's scored goals and has delivered performances. He's played with a good confidence and is in a good rhythm. He definitely deserves this call-up. He's definitely one of the best strikers in this league."

Farke praised his side's fine form stretching back to last season: "It's not a coincidence any more. It's not just a good period, it's quality that we are delivering. Everyone can be proud of this and take lots of confidence." However, he added that the priority is still survival when asked about talk of a European push: "The first step is always to win 40 points and to make sure we do it as fast a possible. If we do it and there are still games left, we will definitely take it - but my only aim and only focus is to make sure we win the 40 points and play another Premier League season."

On the challenge posed by the Eagles: "We face a really strong side. When I speak about Crystal Palace, I can't speak with more respect about them. They have done exceptionally well, especially in the last seasons winning titles. They have done good business in the summer and I think they are stronger this season than last season."

On how he will spend the extended international break: "We allow ourselves a chance to recover a bit more than is possible in normal time. Then, the work continues. Just because we don't have a game for a while doesn't mean we don't train for a while. There are still players here who need my attention. Sometimes there is more time for the detail and for younger players."