Leeds United manager Daniel Farke, Paul Merson in a circular insert.
Leeds United make the trip down south this evening to take on their bitter rivals, Chelsea, at Stamford Bridge.
With the Whites coming off an incredible performance after dismantling Nottingham Forest at Elland Road, confidence will be high within Daniel Farke’s squad.
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Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior is well aware of the problems Leeds are capable of causing his side, with Rosenior highlighting the threat that Dominic Calvert-Lewin will pose to his team.
Former Arsenal player and Chelsea supporter Paul Merson has also had his say on the upcoming game, with the Englishman certainly not holding back in his prediction.
Paul Merson predicts routine Chelsea win over Leeds
With Farke confirming that Pascal Struijk will miss the game through injury, James Justin is likely to keep his place at centre back as the 27-year-old’s versatility continues to prove to be a valuable asset for United in their bid to avoid relegation.
Despite Leeds being in fine form as of late, with three wins and one draw in their last five outings in all competitions, Merson predicts Chelsea will comfortably defeat their visitors from West Yorkshire.
“Leeds needed that win over Nottingham Forest last time out. It becomes even more important considering the fact that West Ham beat Burnley on Saturday,” Merson said in an article for Sportskeeda.
“I know Leeds have managed to take points off the big boys this season, but I don’t see that happening in this game. Cole Palmer just scored a hat-trick, and Chelsea are playing at home. Liam Rosenior’s team will be buzzing. I fully expect Chelsea to get the win here,” with Merson going on to predict a 3-1 win for the hosts.
Considering the way Leeds thrashed Chelsea at Elland Road back in December, some Leeds fans will argue that Merson is overlooking the Whites again, going into the game tonight.
READ MORE:Liam Rosenior gives blunt response on Leeds United battering Chelsea at Elland Road – “I won’t…”
Pascal Struijk will be a big miss for Leeds against Chelsea
Struijk has been an ever-present in Leeds’ backline this season, but the Dutchman unfortunately looks set to miss the Chelsea game through injury, as confirmed by Farke in his press conference.
The 26-year-old was exceptional against Forest, and the balance his left foot brings to the backline will be a big miss.
Pascal Struijk – Match Stats vs Nottingham Forest
Stat Value
Minutes 90
Defensive contributions 15
Tackles 1
Duels (won) 10 (7)
Accurate passes 68/75 (91%)
(Sofascore)
With Leeds’ next Premier League fixture after the Chelsea game not being until 21 February against Aston Villa, hopefully Struijk has more than enough time to recover and be back to full fitness ahead of United’s trip to Villa Park.
READ MORE: ‘I don’t think Leeds…’ – Simon Jordan gives updated Leeds United relegation verdict after convincing win against Nottingham Forest – The Leeds Press