Chelsea face Leeds United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night, considerably earlier than many of the other third-round ties in this season’s competition.
Xabi Alonso’s side host Leeds at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday 9 September, with kick-off at 8pm BST.
The unusual timing is linked to the split Carabao Cup schedule and Chelsea’s absence from European competition this season.
Why are Chelsea playing Leeds this week?
Chelsea are able to play their third-round Carabao Cup tie this week because they do not have a European fixture competing for space in their September schedule.
The third round has been spread across different dates to accommodate clubs involved in UEFA competitions.
talkSPORT’s explanation of the Carabao Cup schedule reports that Chelsea are among six teams playing third-round ties during this earlier window, with the remaining matches staged later in September.
That prevents clubs involved in the Champions League and other European competitions from being forced into an impossible midweek schedule.
Chelsea have no such clash.
The Blues therefore return to action only three days after Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Arsenal.
Chelsea have no European fixture this week
The contrast with Arsenal highlights the reason for the unusual date.
Chelsea’s own pre-Arsenal fixture guide noted that Alonso’s side had only the Leeds Carabao Cup game in their midweek calendar because they are not competing in Europe this season.
Arsenal, by comparison, begin their Champions League campaign away to Napoli.
That creates space for Chelsea’s cup fixture to be staged before the bulk of the third round.
The EFL officially confirmed the third-round dates after the draw was completed last month.
When is Chelsea vs Leeds?
Chelsea vs Leeds takes place at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday 9 September at 8pm BST.
The game will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event, with Sky Go available for subscribers.
Chelsea’s official match guide confirms the broadcast details ahead of the third-round tie.
ReadChelsea’s full Chelsea vs Leeds preview also covers the latest team news, predicted lineup, Leeds form and referee information.
For Alonso, the early scheduling creates a demanding turnaround after Arsenal.
It also means Chelsea can secure their place in the fourth round before many of their Premier League rivals have even played their third-round ties.
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