Leeds United have been dealt another double selection blow as their vital Premier League clash against Chelsea began in nightmare fashion. Jesse Marsch's side began the evening in the relegation zone, with just three games left of their season.
A fourth-minute Mason Mount goal saw Leeds get off to the worst possible start, but the Whites' misfortunes did not stop there.
With the visitors on top, Daniel James was handed a straight red card in the 24th minute when he went in high on Mateo Kovacic in the centre of the pitch. The Welsh forward will now miss Leeds' final two matches of the season as they fight against the drop.
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James' red card comes on the back of Luke Ayling's first-half sending off during Sunday's defeat to Arsenal, meaning Leeds have lost another senior player to suspension, in a season where the club have set a new Premier League record for the highest number of red cards.
Matters got even worse for Leeds on 37 minutes, when Jack Harrison was forced off. After dropping to the turf with no-one near him, he was unable to continue after receiving treatment. He appeared to be pointing to his right hamstring as he left the pitch.
Leeds were able to welcome Liam Cooper back into the starting line-up this evening, but are still without a host of senior players, including Stuart Dallas, Patrick Bamford, Adam Forshaw and Tyler Roberts.
Following tonight's match against Chelsea, Leeds welcome Brighton to Elland Road on Sunday, before a final day trip to Brentford. To ensure survival they know they must better Burnley's results in the Claret's last three matches.
