| Chelsea vs Leeds | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Chelsea vs Leeds
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COMPETITION :
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FA Cup
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| DATE: |
29-02-2024
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TIME:
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01.00 AM IST (UTC +5:30)
11.30 PM UAE
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STADIUM
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Stamford Bridge
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Predicted Lineups
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Sanchez; Gusto, Gilchrist, Chalobah, Colwill; Gallagher, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Mudryk; Sterling
Leeds United possible starting lineup:
Meslier; Roberts, Ampadu, Cooper, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; Gnonto, Gray, Anthony; Piroe
In the aftermath of the EFL Cup final, Liverpool emerged victorious but with battle scars, while Chelsea navigated the match without incurring any fresh injury concerns, although Thiago Silva's groin ailment persisted, sidelining the veteran from the action.
Silva's availability for the upcoming fixture remains uncertain, with Marc Cucurella facing a similar dilemma due to an ankle issue. Meanwhile, a slew of players including Wesley Fofana, Reece James, Lesley Ugochukwu, Romeo Lavia, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Benoit Badiashile continue to be unavailable due to various injuries.
Despite the setbacks, Robert Sanchez's return to the matchday squad at Wembley offers a glimmer of hope, with several others potentially benefiting from the quick turnaround, including Trevoh Chalobah, Alfie Gilchrist, Noni Madueke, Christopher Nkunku, and Mykhaylo Mudryk.
However, Christopher Nkunku faces an extended spell on the sidelines, as confirmed by Pochettino, leaving Cole Palmer likely to shoulder midfield responsibilities in his absence. Cesare Casadei, another potential replacement, is ineligible due to cup-ties.
Leeds United shares Chelsea's woes on the defensive front, with Karl Darlow, Pascal Struijk, and Stuart Dallas nursing injuries, ruling them out of contention for the fifth-round tie. On a positive note, Sam Byram's return to training offers a ray of hope, although Farke delivered a somber update on Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, and Patrick Bamford, casting doubt on their availability.
Daniel James is anticipated to overcome a bruise to feature in the fixture, while Ethan Ampadu is poised to face his former club from the starting lineup.