Chelsea

Chelsea are in crisis. It is no surprise that they have lost their last five Premier League matches. Since their elimination in the Champions League round of 16, the Stamford Bridge side have hit a wall, and the only bright spot was their victory over lowly League One side Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter-finals. But the mood is very gloomy.

Next season, barring a major upset, they will not be playing in the Champions League. Even the Europa League looks unlikely unless they turn things around in the final five league fixtures. The other option for playing in Europe’s second-tier competition is to win the FA Cup, but to do so they must first get past the semi-finals. Chelsea, now without Rosenior on the bench, need to get the best out of their players again.

Chelsea players injured for the FA Cup semi-final

Palmer, Estevao, Rice James, Joao Pedro, Jorgensen, and Colwill

Chelsea players suspended for the FA Cup semi-final

Chelsea have no players suspended for this match.

Chelsea’s latest results

• Everton 3-0 Chelsea
• Chelsea 7-0 Port Vale
• Chelsea 0-3 Manchester City
• Chelsea 0-1 Manchester United
• Brighton 3-0 Chelsea

Leeds United

Leeds, for their part, go into the match with Premier League survival well on track. With the valuable draw secured away at Bournemouth, they have 40 points, nine clear of the relegation places with 12 points still up for grabs. As such, Daniel Frank can go all out in pursuit of the FA Cup final, which would be a dream come true for all the fans after years away from the top flight.

Chelsea are the favourites, but Leeds United have shown they can compete on any stage. They are a very resilient side, difficult to beat, who progressed on penalties away to West Ham in the previous round and who this year have given teams like Manchester City a run for their money and beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford. If they play at their best, they will have a chance of progressing.

Leeds United injury news for the FA Cup semi-final

Anton Stach

Leeds United suspension news for the FA Cup semi-final

Leeds United have no players suspended for this match.

Leeds United’s latest results

• Leeds United 0-0 Brentford
• West Ham 2-2 Leeds United (2-4 on penalties)
• Manchester United 1-2 Leeds United
• Leeds United 3-0 Wolves
• Bournemouth 2-2 Leeds United

Chelsea v Leeds United: statistics

Chelsea have lost seven of their last eight competitive matches. Furthermore, they have kept a clean sheet in just one of their last ten matches, conceding 22 goals in the process.

Leeds United, for their part, are on a seven-match unbeaten run, with four wins and three draws. Furthermore, they have kept a clean sheet in four of their last seven matches.

Chelsea v Leeds United: predictions

Chelsea start as favourites. On the strength of their squad, they are, but their form does not inspire optimism. They arrive in the midst of a crisis and following Rosenior’s sacking. Furthermore, this is their last chance to win a title this season. Leeds United, for their part, go into the match brimming with confidence, so it will be a more evenly matched contest than might be expected if one considers only the quality of each team. Extra time, including penalties, cannot be ruled out.