Why Andrey Santos Could Start for Chelsea Against Leeds

Chelsea Football Club is preparing for their FA Cup fifth-round match against Leeds United this Wednesday. The team is managing several player absences due to injury and illness ahead of the fixture at Stamford Bridge.

Main News

First-team regulars Ben Chilwell, Malo Gusto, and Conor Gallagher are unavailable for the match. The club confirmed Gallagher is ill, while Chilwell and Gusto are undergoing medical assessment.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino stated that several players from the under-21 squad have been training with the senior team. He specifically mentioned midfielder Andrey Santos, saying the player is “ready” and that the situation presents a “good opportunity” for him.

Defenders Thiago Silva and Marc Cucurella have returned to training. Pochettino indicated they will need to be assessed before a decision is made on their involvement against Leeds.

Summary

Chelsea faces Leeds United in the FA Cup with a depleted squad. Key players including Conor Gallagher, Ben Chilwell, and Malo Gusto will miss the match.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino has integrated several youth players into first-team training. He highlighted midfielder Andrey Santos as being prepared for the opportunity.

There is some positive news, as defenders Thiago Silva and Marc Cucurella have resumed training. Their availability for the fixture will be determined following further assessment.

FAQs

**Which Chelsea players are confirmed out against Leeds?**
Conor Gallagher is out due to illness. Ben Chilwell and Malo Gusto are also unavailable and are being assessed by the medical team.

Who has returned to training for Chelsea?
Defenders Thiago Silva and Marc Cucurella have returned to training. Their match fitness will be evaluated before the game.

What did the manager say about Andrey Santos?
Manager Mauricio Pochettino stated that Santos is “ready” and that the current situation is a “good opportunity” for the midfielder to step up.