Chelsea must be ready to face hostile Leeds United crowd, says Tuchel

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has no doubt his players will face a very hostile reception when they face Leeds United on Wednesday night.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Blues boss Tuchel says he expects a “tough match and tough crowd” at Elland Road, where both sides will have much at stake.

Jesse Marsch’ Leeds team are fighting against relegation from the top flight, while Chelsea are looking to seal a Champions League spot.



“It’s almost like do or die (for Leeds) – like a cup match for them,” Tuchel added.

“The atmosphere will be like this. I’m looking forward to it. It will be a big fight and I think the atmosphere will tell you what’s going on and we will feel it straightaway, so we need to step up.”

Chelsea hope to have N’Golo Kante and Jorginho fit for the game.

Both players missed Saturday’s 2-2 draw at home to Wolves, who fought back from two down to snatch a point.

The Blues are hoping to have them both available for the trip to Yorkshire – and certainly for this weekend’s FA Cup final against Liverpool.

Tuchel said: “We’re fighting for Jorgi and we’re fighting for N’Golo for tomorrow. But it will be close and I don’t know if we’ll make it.”