Chelsea will travel to Elland Road on Wednesday evening without key midfielder Moises Caicedo, who begins a suspension following his red card in Sunday’s 1–1 draw against Arsenal.
The Ecuadorian was initially cautioned for a late challenge on Mikel Merino, but the yellow card was upgraded to red after VAR replays showed Moises Caicedo catching the Spaniard high on the ankle with his studs.
After the match, manager Enzo Maresca admitted that the officials made the correct call, suggesting Chelsea will not appeal the decision. The dismissal — the first of Moises Caicedo’s professional career — means the Blues will have to make do without one of their most consistent performers this season.
The 23-year-old has been integral to Maresca’s midfield structure, contributing three goals and an assist in 12 Premier League games while anchoring the team’s high-possession system. His absence will likely see Conor Gallagher or Lesley Ugochukwu step into the defensive midfield role.
Chelsea were handed more positive news at the weekend with the return of Cole Palmer to the matchday squad for the first time since September. The England international has endured a difficult spell with groin and toe injuries, but he could be in line for a return to action at Elland Road.
Elsewhere, Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia remain long-term absentees, while Mykhailo Mudryk continues to serve a suspension following Anti-Doping Rule Violations earlier this year.
Leeds Dealing With New Injury Concerns
Hosts Leeds United also have fitness issues to contend with. Daniel James is a doubt after experiencing hamstring discomfort during Saturday’s 3–0 defeat to Manchester City — another setback in what has been a stop-start year for the Welsh winger.
Midfielder Anton Stach faces a late fitness test as he continues concussion protocol following a heavy fall against Aston Villa. Defender James Justin, meanwhile, is expected to recover from a minor knock sustained at the Etihad.
Sebastiaan Bornauw remains uncertain with ongoing knee problems, and Sean Longstaff is sidelined for at least a month due to a calf injury.
Karl Darlow’s absence from the squad at the weekend was unexplained, while Ethan Ampadu — facing his former club — will need to tread carefully as he is one booking away from suspension.
