Ampadu lifts Leeds mood before Chelsea clash at Stamford Bridge

Leeds United head into Tuesday night’s trip to Chelsea with confidence high, according to captain Ethan Ampadu, who insists belief inside the squad remains strong as the season enters a decisive phase.

The Whites arrive in London on the back of an impressive 3-1 home victory over Nottingham Forest last weekend, a performance that reignited momentum at Elland Road. Goals from Jayden Bogle, Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed a fourth home win in seven, underlining Leeds’ growing consistency.

That result followed a solid run on the road, with Leeds losing just once in their last six away league matches, and sets up an intriguing clash against a resurgent Chelsea side under Liam Rosenior.

Ampadu stressed that Leeds have learned to keep emotions in check, regardless of results.

“I think what we have been good at this year is not dwelling on results, whether they have been positive or negative,” the Leeds skipper said. “We learn from all results, all games, and try to improve the next week.

“So now is another chance to do that. We have another game coming up where we have to put in our best performance and go again.”

Ampadu believes Leeds’ mentality has been a constant throughout the campaign, with the group refusing to be distracted by league position or external expectations.

“Our sole focus for the rest of the season is on each game and making sure that we put in our best performances to deliver results in every single game,” he said.

“There was a lot of belief in this group right from the very start until now. We fully believe that we can achieve what we want to achieve.”

That mindset will be tested at Stamford Bridge against a Chelsea side who have shown renewed confidence in recent weeks. Leeds’ ability to translate home form into away results has been a key factor in keeping their campaign on track so far.

The fixture carries personal significance for Ampadu, who spent six years at Chelsea between 2017 and 2023. However, the Wales international was quick to downplay any emotional subplot.

“It will obviously be nice to be back but I am not thinking about it being Chelsea and going back there,” he said. “It is just another game for Leeds United where we want to try to pick up more points.”

Ampadu also acknowledged the challenge posed by their opponents, pointing to Chelsea’s long-standing mentality and ambition.

“Chelsea are a club who always want to be at the top of the table and winning things. We know that is their mentality,” he added. “So we know the level of quality and desire to win the game that they are going to bring.

“But we want to do the same. We want to win this game of football.”

Leeds face Chelsea on Tuesday night, a fixture that could provide further clarity on their ability to compete against top-half opposition away from home. With confidence restored and key attackers finding form, Leeds will be looking to build momentum rather than simply contain their hosts.

A positive result would reinforce the progress made in recent weeks, while another strong performance could further validate Ampadu’s belief in the group as the season moves toward its final stretch.

Can Leeds turn belief into another big away result at Chelsea?