Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Sat 25 April 2026 18:10, UK

Leeds United will be hoping that Joao Pedro will be absent at Chelsea this weekend.

Given recent form alone, Leeds will be quietly optimistic about their chances of securing a spot in the FA Cup final.

Chelsea have endured a wretched run, which led to the sacking of Liam Rosenior, while the Whites are oozing with confidence after a series of positive results.

Leeds have already been boosted by the news that Estevao will miss Sunday’s clash, with the Brazilian set to miss the rest of the season.

However, Pedro is also a doubt for the FA Cup semi-final, and the Whites will be hoping it remains that way.

Liam Delap inclusion would be a huge boost for Leeds

Liam Delap was actually loosely linked with Leeds before his move to Chelsea, where things have certainly not gone to plan.

The former Man City and Ipswich star has endured a horrid season at Stamford Bridge, with his frailties summed up by the fact that he has managed just three goals all season.

That is despite the fact that he has made 42 appearances across all competitions.

If he were to start against Leeds, the likes of Pascal Struijk and Jaka Bijol would have a field day, but if Pedro were to make the squad, things would be different, with Calum McFarlane since having provided an update.

Ahead of the game, he said via Chelsea’s channels: ” With Joao (Pedro) and Cole (Palmer), they both trained today and are in a good place.

“We don’t know yet (whether they can feature on Sunday), but we have another day tomorrow to have a look at them and then make a call on them.”

Cole Palmer return would dampen Leeds spirits

Even Palmer has had a tough time of it at Chelsea this season, but he has still so often been their main source of creativity.

The 23-year-old has 18 goal involvements across all competitions, though he blanked on his only appearance in the FA Cup.

If Pedro and Palmer were to miss Sunday’s game, it would be a major boost to Leeds’ chances of progressing to the final.