Just before the game against Leeds United, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel had sought more protection from the referee. Leeds United are notorious for their strong challenges.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!“The job of the referee is always very essential,” Tuchel stated prior of the encounter.
“We’ve seen that in their recent games with their high physicality and willingness to take large chances in challenges, which is understandable, but I’m not comfortable projecting it in our game.”
We must deal with it, and although we do want a certain amount of fairness, we cannot, in our situation, keep players out for fear of injury.”
Leeds were proactive in their approach to the game, as Tuchel predicted, and it didn’t take long to understand why.
Anthony Taylor was in charge of the game, and following Daniel James’ horrific attack on Mateo Kovacic, the centre referee didn’t hesitate to show him the red card.
Chelsea’s task was made easier by a red card in the 24th minute, but Thomas Tuchel’s biggest regret is the injury to his star player ahead of the FA Cup final.
Kovacic should be available on Saturday.
