Speaking in Friday’s press conference as per Football London, Chelsea boss Graham Potter has given his verdict on Leeds United and is aware that the Whites play with great intensity – warning his players they will need to play well.
Potter’s Chelsea come into the game in a dismal run of form. Just two wins in 15 games in all competitions, Potter has seen his side score just six goals in that time. They have failed to pick up three points in their last six outings.
Now, they take on a Leeds side who have been buoyed by the arrival of Javi Gracia as manager. Leeds secured a 1-0 win over a Southampton side that the weekend prior, had gone to Stamford Bridge and beat Potter’s struggling men.
Potter has since revealed that he may be without Reece James. Thiago Silva, Reece James, Edouard Mendy, N’Golo Kante, Cesar Azpilicueta, Armando Broja and Christian Pulisic are all missing ahead of Saturday afternoon’s outing.
Not that a list of eight injured players will affect Chelsea much, given the size of their squad. But losing James and Mount, as well as Silva, will come as a blow. Potter gave his verdict on Leeds and knows what to expect from us.
“We know Leeds, since they’ve been in the Premier League, have played with intensity. We’re aware of that. We have to perform in a good way and we’re fighting for the points,” Potter told his press conference, as per Football London.
Chelsea boss Graham Potter gives verdict on Leeds, aware of intensity
What a chance Leeds have to go and get the better of Chelsea. The thought of us beating Chelsea 3-0 under Thomas Tuchel’s reign will be on the minds of both sets of players – and that could perhaps given Leeds hope.
Chelsea could be without James as well as Azpilicueta, meaning a makeshift right-back is needed. Ruben Loftus-Cheek has played there before, and Willy Gnonto should capitalise. Silva is a huge miss – as is midfielder Mount.
Leeds are playing a side beleaguered in confidence, without any kind of form, and missing some of their best players. If there was a time to play Potter’s side, it is now. Leeds have got to take advantage of the situation.
