Leeds United have not yet mathematically secured their Premier League status, but their focus is already partly on Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
They are sitting eight points clear of the relegation zone and may just need one more win to secure safety, if they have not already done it after the last two results.
The wins over Manchester United and Wolves have eased the pressure on Leeds in the Premier League, and they now have the luxury of having one eye on potential FA Cup glory.
Chelsea’s woeful form, coupled with their injury problems, means Leeds have more than a decent chance of beating the Blues and reaching the FA Cup final this season.
FA make key announcement for Leeds vs Chelsea Wembley showdown
The Football Association have announced the team of match officials for the two FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley this weekend.
For Sunday’s clash between Leeds and Chelsea, Jarred Gillett will take charge of the game at Wembley, and the two teams will count on his experience.
Neil Davies and Simon Long will be the two assistant referees, and Thomas Kirk will be the fourth official for the game.
Paul Howard will be the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and will be assisted by Sian Massey-Ellis during the big semi-final.
Blake Antrobus will be the reserve assistant referee for the game between Leeds and Chelsea at Wembley this weekend.
Leeds fans will have their eyes on Gillett, who didn’t endear himself to Daniel Farke the last time he was in charge of a Whites game in the Premier League.
The Brentford game was infamous for ‘cheating tactics’
Leeds were held to a 0-0 draw by Brentford at Elland Road. However, the away side’s tactics didn’t earn them any plaudits.
Gillett failed to rein in Brentford’s attempts to delay everything, and the away side were more or less accused of cheating for their gamesmanship.
Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher went down to allow his teammates to regroup and get fresh instructions from manager Keith Andrews at Elland Road.
The referee allowed it to happen, which left Leeds supporters and their manager furious and allowed Brentford to walk away with a point.
Daniel Farke almost had a showdown with Gillett at the end of the game and was only reined in by Andrews.
Leeds supporters will hope that the referee does a better job of handling the atmosphere when Leeds take on Chelsea at Wembley on Sunday.
