Leeds United will face Premier League rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.
Leeds United are aiming to complete the league double of Champions League contenders Chelsea when they visit Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.
Daniel Farke’s men produced one of their best performances of the season when Jaka Bijol, Ao Tanaka and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all found the net in a 3-1 win against the Blues at Elland Road in early December. That victory on their home patch kickstarted a run of just one defeat in ten Premier League games that helped the Whites creating some breathing space between themselves and the relegation zone.
As it stands following Friday night’s impressive 3-1 home win against fellowing strugglers Nottingham Forest, Leeds are sitting six points clear of the relegation zone and have high hopes they can extend their top flight stay beyond a solitary season. There is no doubt Tuesday’s trip to Stamford Bridge will provide a stern test of their strong form as they face a Chelsea side pushing for a place in next season’s Champions League alongside the likes of Manchester Uinted, Liverpool and Aston Villa.
With just hours to go until kick-off, we take a look at what former Premier League winners Chris Sutton and Paul Merson are saying about the game.
What has Paul Merson said about Chelsea v Leeds United?
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Pundit Paul Merson | Sky
Writing in his SportsKeeda predictions column, the former Arsenal forward said: “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. 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. Palmer's performance is a reminder to England boss Thomas Tuchel. I always say this, there is no point being the best player in the country in November! If you want to be in the World Cup squad, you have to be producing in the coming months.
“Since arriving at Chelsea, Palmer has produced some incredible numbers. His goals to games ratio is similar to a top number nine. I know a lot of them were penalties, but you still have to put them away! I expect games at the World Cup to go to penalties and England could use someone like him in that regard too. Tuchel does not care about reputation and I believe he will pick players based on merit. If Palmer can keep his form up, he has got every chance of making that team.
“After Liverpool's loss to Manchester City, Chelsea hold an advantage over the Reds in the race for Champions League qualification. I fully expect Chelsea to get the win here. Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Leeds United.”
What has Chris Sutton said about Chelsea v Leeds United?
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Sky Sports.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the former Chelsea and Celtic striker said: “Leeds turned Chelsea over at Elland Road in December but they are not the same force away from home and this game smells of Chelsea revenge to me. The Blues have made a good start under new boss Liam Rosenior, with four wins out of four in the league. Cole Palmer has hit form too, and they should win this fairly comfortably. Prediction: 2-0”
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