Prediction: Leeds vs Chelsea

Prediction: Chelsea win

Best Odds: 8/15

Bookmaker: 888sport

The Premier League continues to roll on through the month of August with a parade of exciting fixtures waiting for us in what serves as just the third set of games so far this season. We’ve already seen a whole lot of exciting developments in English football’s top flight and this weekend, we hope for even more – especially at Elland Road where Leeds United will play host to Chelsea.

Leeds

Leeds United managed to stave off the threat of relegation last season and as such, there are plenty of expectations on their shoulders regarding their ability to become a consistent presence in the top flight once again. They’re always going to be fun to watch as a result of the philosophy that was introduced a few years back, and we expect them to surprise quite a few people between now and May.

Team News

Whereas Bamford and Cooper will be assessed before game day, the following players have been ruled out through injury: Firpo, Dallas and Ayling.

Chelsea

There’s a big argument to be made that Chelsea are the third best club in English football but when you take a look at the bigger picture, that’s a strange limbo for them to be in. They’re not quite good enough to push for the title but they’re settled in the top four race, meaning that in all likelihood, they should be able to pursue other trophy ventures without too much risk. Then again, football is rarely so simple.

Team News

Kovacic and Kante have been ruled out of this one with Loftus-Cheek being tipped to feature heavily after a strong outing against Tottenham.

Factors to Consider

• Leeds haven’t beaten Chelsea in their last eight attempts, dating back to 2002.
• Leeds have won one and drawn one of their first two games.
• Chelsea have won one and drawn one of their first two games.
• Leeds have scored four goals and conceded three in their first two games.
• Chelsea have scored three goals and conceded two in their first two games.

Conclusion

This is going to be an absolute dog fight between two clubs that, for better or worse, are always going to hate each other on some level. Marsch and Tuchel have both been involved in touchline disputes so far this season so expect to see that trend continue, and on the pitch, there’s probably going to be a lot of controversy, ending with Chelsea’s quality taking over to give them a narrow 2-1 win.

Prediction: Chelsea win

Best Odds: 8/15

Bookmaker: 888sport