Thomas Tuchel's selection gamble backfires as Leeds run riot against Chelsea

N’Golo Kante has been as pivotal a figure as anyone in this modern era of Chelsea – an impact as great as that of Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard or John Terry.

That means replacing him when he picks up injuries is no easy task, with the France international again on the sidelines for a spell.

Thomas Tuchel’s dilemma was whether to risk going with a more attacking replacement against Leeds on Sunday, a relentless opponent who had started the season well under Jesse Marsch’s tutelage, or input another defensive-minded anchor alongside Jorginho. His choice ended up costing Chelsea the match.

There was a red-hot atmosphere in the Elland Road sunshine between two traditional fierce rivals – animosity that stretches back to when the pair were competing for the first division title in the 1970s.

A Raheem Sterling strike that flashed just wide with only 36 seconds on the clock almost silenced the home faithful, but they need not have worried, as the high-octane unit that Marsch has created soon had the measure of their opponents, and hit them where it hurt – right through the middle.

Connor Gallagher has more than earned his spot in the Chelsea side after his exploits at Crystal Palace last term, but his attacking instincts were of no use as Leeds simply pressed and pressed, not allowing the visitors out of their own half for long periods.

Without the Kante buffer, Chelsea were simply too brittle at their core. With the crowd cheering every flying challenge, Leeds won possession six times in the final third in the first half alone.