With Chelsea and Leeds United set to collide at Stamford Bridge, both Liam Rosenior and Daniel Farke have provided critical updates from their final press conferences. While the Blues look to maintain their top-four momentum, the Whites are battling to keep their heads above water in the relegation zone. Here is the breakdown of the latest injury news and the key talking points from the managers’ desks.
Chelsea: A Fit Core but Minor Scarees
Liam Rosenior’s squad is largely healthy, though a few minor concerns have kept the medical team busy leading up to kickoff.
The most significant update concerns right-back Reece James. Rosenior confirmed that James is fully fit but is nursing a “small issue” that has made him feel unwell recently. While he is available for selection, it is unlikely he will start; he may be restricted to an impact role off the bench if needed.
There was positive news regarding midfielder Andrey Santos. After picking up a swollen ankle in training, the Brazilian was passed fit after training without issue. “Andrew Santos is a soldier,” Rosenior remarked, confirming he is fine for the game.
The long-term list remains unchanged. Tosin Adarabioyo, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo, Levi Colwill, and Jamie Gittens are all sidelined. However, with Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández fully fit, Chelsea has the firepower to secure three points.
Leeds United: Struijk Absent, Calvert-Lewin Hopeful
Daniel Farke faces a sterner defensive headache. The news regarding Pascal Struijk is definitive: he will miss the game. The center-back is out with a hip flexor problem, a blow to Farke’s backline that was already fragile.
There is optimism regarding striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He missed training earlier in the week due to illness, but Farke provided a hopeful update. “Dominic was struggling with illness, but I hope it’s not too bad,” the manager said, indicating he expects Calvert-Lewin to pass his fitness test and lead the line.
Midfielder Anton Stach is also set to sit this one out, though he is expected back for the subsequent fixture against Aston Villa. On a brighter note, Ilia Gruev is expected to be available.
For more match previews and team news, visit this page for English Premier League updates.