Patrick Bamford missing from squad, Willy Gnonto dropped – Leeds United confirmed starting XI v Chelsea
Javi Gracia has confirmed his Leeds United starting line-up for the Premier League clash against Chelsea on Saturday, 4 March.
The Whites claimed their first Premier League win since Bonfire Night when they edged past relegation rivals Southampton 1-0 last week, and as such, will travel to Stamford Bridge full of confidence.
As revealed via the club’s official Twitter account, Gracia has made three changes to the side that lost to Fulham in the FA Cup on Tuesday (28 February).
Patrick Bamford misses out on the squad altogether, while Max Wober, Brenden Aaronson and Jack Harrison Harrison come into the starting line-up.
Willy Gnonto has to settle for a spot on the bench despite his recent form, while Rasmus Kristensen is also dropped.
Great opportunity
If Leeds ever hoped to claim a result at Stamford Bridge, this is as good an opportunity as they will get.
Graham Potter’s side are in freefall right now, and the toxic atmosphere at the London club could well play into Leeds’ hands if they get off to a quick start.
However, if the Whites realistically want to come away with points, they will need to sharpen up in the final third and look to take any chances that come their way.
Against Fulham in the fifth round of the FA Cup, Gracia’s side were wasteful in attack as they spurned chance after chance to get themselves back into the tie.
Despite this, the defensive foundation that Gracia has instilled in his team since his arrival has been promising to see. With Chelsea’s struggles in front of goal also well documented, it would come as no surprise for this to be a low-scoring affair.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are already considering a change of manager in the summer with this Englishman being eyed up by the club.
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