© Provided by Transfer TavernGeneral view inside Elland Road before the Brentford match, August 2019
Leeds United will not have to face Thiago Silva in their Premier League clash with Chelsea on Saturday afternoon, acting as a late boost to the Whites.
Marcelo Bielsa side's host the Blues this weekend, in what has the potential to be an intriguing tactical battle at Elland Road.
Chelsea will pose a huge threat to the Whites, with Thomas Tuchel not yet suffering defeat in 11 matches in charge, taking them up a level after Frank Lampard's departure.
Leeds will be aiming for a response after their disappointing 2-0 defeat away to West Ham, with Bielsa without Pascal Struijk and Pablo Hernandez due to injury, as reported by The Athletic's Phil Hay on Twitter.
Chelsea suffer Silva injury blow
Chelsea have also suffered a major late injury blow, however, with the Yorkshire Evening Post confirming that Silva will miss out at Elland Road after a new issue in his recovery from a previous problem.
The 36-year-old hasn't featured for the west Londoners since their 1-0 win at Tottenham early last month, but was expected to feature very soon. YEP's report details the Brazilian has 'suffered a setback' in his recovery, and will now not make his return this weekend.
Transfer Tavern take
Silva's absence means Chelsea look likely to continue with their three-man defence of Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger.
Tuchel's men haven't conceded in their last four matches, in all competitions, proving that they are still thriving without the Brazilian legend in the team, but it will certainly make Patrick Bamford and co's task easier not having to face a player with such experience and leadership qualities.
Silva is described in the report as having a 'huge impact' at Stamford Bridge, and so his absence may prove to have an equally large influence on Saturday's proceedings.
In other news, Paul Robinson has urged Leeds to make a move Odsonne Edouard. Read about it here.
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