The Blues under Thomas Tuchel has transformed into one solid team. They have series of unbeaten run in eleven games since the former PSG boss took charge. Eight of which ended in a triumph. Their next outing against Leeds shall be fairly easy for them to secure another win. Marcelo Bielsa’s men are currently in their negative trend with only one win in the last five games.
The teams’ updated news
Leeds United were beaten 0-2 by West Ham last Monday when they travelled to London stadium. Jesse Lindgard and Craig Dawson scored the Hammers’ winning goals. It was their 14th defeats of their season debut after their return to the top flight.
Their counterpart, Chelsea continued their positive trend last weekend after crushing Everton 2-0. Ben Godfrey’s own goal gave their lead and Jorginho’s penalty doubled their lead. The Blues finally managed to climb to the top four in the standings.
Possible tactic
Marcelo Bielsa will be opting for 4-1-4-1 with the transition to 4-4-1-1 or 4-2-3-1. Unfortunately, some figures in the squad such as Pascal Struijk, Robin Koch, Pablo Hernandez, Jamie Shackelton, Adam Forshaw have to be sidelined due to their injury. Patrick Bamford is still the main scorer supported by Raphinha and Rodrigo Moreno or Jack Harrison on both flanks while Tyler Roberts is operating behind the striker. In the midfield, Mateusz Klitch and Kalvin Phillips shall be the first layer of their defensive stance.
Meanwhile, Thomas Tuchel is more confident with his preferred formation 3-4-2-1. The injury of Tammy Abraham will not impact his starting IX. Tuchel is likely to play Kai Harvetz again as the frontman with Mason Mount and Timo Werner are occupying the attacking midfielder role. On both flanks, Recce James or Callum Hudson-Odoi and Marcus Alonso will be the full back on both sides.
Players to watch
Leeds’ main men this season, beside Patrick Bamford the top scorer of the team, are the Brasilian winger Raphinha who has netted five goals and assists each, Jack Harrison who has notched up six goals and made four assists and the versatile Stuart Dallas registering five goals and provided two assists.
In Chelsea, Mason Mount is the top performer of the season who has contributed five goals and provided three assists. Some other key men to watch are the tireless Antonio Rudiger, Jorginho with six goals and one assist and the Spanish skipper Cesar Azpilicueta.
Leeds vs Chelsea Prediction
Thomas Tuchel’s men will have no difficulty in sealing three points here. Leeds’ form has been inconsistent, either win or lose. Despite playing at home, their defensive frailties are worrying although their offence is dangerous. In the end, Cesar Azpilicueta and Co will come out as a winner.
Betting odds
According to the punters, the odds for draw result are at 31/10. Meanwhile, Patrick Bamford and Co are backed to win at 19/5, whereas Chelsea’s win market is at 13/16.