Leeds vs Chelsea: Relegation battle heats up

Leeds United faces Chelsea at Elland Road on Wednesday, urgently seeking to reverse a poor run of form that has plunged them into the relegation zone. Last weekend, the team showed resilience by coming back from a 2-0 deficit against Manchester City, though ultimately succumbed to a late winner. This fighting spirit will be crucial from the outset.

The Whites have a significant defensive vulnerability, having conceded in their last nine consecutive league matches. However, their home ground, Elland Road, has been a source of strength, with two wins and two draws recorded this season. Furthermore, Chelsea has a historically poor away record against Leeds in West Yorkshire, winning only six of their 48 previous away league encounters.

Leeds United has been hit by significant injury news, with winger Daniel James out for at least eight weeks due to a hamstring tendon injury, and midfielder Sean Longstaff sidelined for the rest of 2025 with a calf problem. Defender Sebastiaan Bornauw is also a doubt. On a positive note, midfielder Anton Stach has returned to full training after concussion protocols, and goalkeeper Karl Darlow is fit again. In-form striker Lukas Nmecha is expected to lead the attack alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin.