Leeds United face a stern test on Saturday as they welcome Chelsea, following back to back defeats at the hands of Aston Villa and West Ham. The Whites have slipped to the bottom half of the table once again and are being closely chased by Crystal Palace and Wolves while Southampton aren’t far behind either. Therefore, the hosts will be keen on salvaging at least a point against the Blues this weekend.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Chelsea
Defence
The presence of Diego Llorente has given Leeds United some much-needed creative essence in the build-up, even though the club have lost their last two matches. The Spaniard should thus continue his central defensive partnership alongside captain Liam Cooper.
There shouldn’t be any changes elsewhere either, with Stuart Dallas and Luke Ayling once again retaining their place in the fullback positions. Marcelo Bielsa, though, does have the option of starting with Ezgjan Alioski, should he prefer more attacking presence on the left-hand side.
Either way, the Leeds United backline needs to remain calm during the early phases of the match, avoid conceding the game early and allowing the opposition to apply pressure on goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Midfield
Leeds United were blessed with the return of Kalvin Phillips last time out. The Englishman served as the main holding midfielder, as usual, and his contributions in the middle of the park will be important now more than ever, against a Chelsea side that boast the services of players like Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante.
Moving slightly further forward, Mateusz Klich is likely to occupy the advanced midfield role alongside Rodrigo Moreno. However, the latter is set to operate in a much more offensive role – almost as a secondary striker.
Attack
Speaking of the offensive unit, it is about time Bielsa stops giving chances to Helder Costa at the expense of Jack Harrison. The on-loan Manchester City winger could indeed return to the starting eleven this weekend, forming the wide attacking duo alongside the guaranteed starter in Raphinha.
The Whites’ meanwhile, should once again be spearheaded by the club’s top goalscorer in Patrick Bamford. After a disappointing performance against West Ham, the forward will relish the opportunity, perhaps even desperate, to make an impression against his old club this weekend.
