The State of Play
Mauricio Pochettino is now under even more intense scrutiny and pressure than he was before as Chelsea lost their first chance of silverware in the Todd Boehly era at the weekend. The Blues were beaten 1-0 after extra-time by an inexperienced and injury ravaged Liverpool side so the pressure really is on for this FA Cup fifth round tie as they attempt to keep their underwhelming season alive.
Leeds United have been magnificent in the last few months in the Championship as they now appear destined for a return to the top-flight via the automatic promotion places. The Whites came from behind to defeat league leaders Leicester City by three goals to one at Elland Road last weekend and, coached by former Norwich boss Daniel Farke, they have got onto a roll and are playing some excellent football at the same time.
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Team News
It was reported on Tuesday morning that Christopher Nkunku was having to undergo yet another medical test after picking up yet another injury for The Blues. Chelsea also remain without the likes of key defenders Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana and Ben Chilwell.
Daniel Farke remains without two key players for this midweek clash as Northern Ireland international Stuart Dallas remains unavailable alongside young defender, Pascal Struijk.
Expected Line-ups
Chelsea: Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Chilwell; Caicedo, Fernandez; Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling; Madueke
Leeds: Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; Gnonto, Rutter, Summerville; Piroe
What they Said
As was pretty clear with their really poor extra-time performance against Liverpool, Pochettino described his Chelsea side as ‘tired’ and suggested they were simply planning and hoping for penalties.
Daniel Farke refused to be drawn on whether Leeds could not mount a serious title challenge in the second-tier. “That’s not my topic. My topic is the three points. I let the table take care of itself.”
When and How to Watch
This match will be played at Stamford Bridge at 19:30 on Wednesday February 28th and will be shown live on ITV4. It can also be streamed via the ITVX app.
Prediction
Mauricio Pochettino may not survive until the weekend in the Chelsea dugout if they were to be upset by second-tier opposition in the cup. They have been really underwhelming and inconsistent throughout the campaign and will be susceptible to most Leeds attacks. Leeds have been free scoring and fluent of late and they will take the game to their shaken opposition and both teams scoring in an entertaining encounter is to be expected.
