"What a prick, disgusting challenge" "Should never be allowed to play football again" - Chelsea fans slam Dan James for 'leg-breaker' of a tackle before sending off

Daniel James was given a straight red for a reckless challenge on Mateo Kovacic in the 24th minute of Leeds United's Premier League clash with Chelsea on Wednesday, May 11. Most fans aren't disagreeing with the decision.

Kovacic had control of the ball before James went sliding in and although he got the ball, his studs went high into the Croatian midfielder's legs.

Referee Anthony Taylor took no time in brandishing a red card and he was well placed to see the awful tackle.

Fans have defended the decision with Chelsea already 1-0 up and Leeds now facing a mountain to climb.

Mason Mount's exquisite strike in the fourth minute following good play from Reece James put the Blues in the driving seat.

Daniel James' sending off has only made matters worse for Jesse Marsch's side, who are in deep trouble in the bottom half of the table. They started the match in 18th place, and even a single point would see them surpass Burnley into the safe zone.

Here are some reactions on Twitter to the challenge and sending off that forced Kovacic off the field in the 30th minute:

---

Chelsea dominant as Leeds United's woes continue

The former Manchester United man was rightly sent off

It has been a first-half dominance from Thomas Tuchel's side who have controlled the game and look well poised to return to winning ways. The shock last-minute equalizer against Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday looks to have spurred the Blues on and they have been fantastic.

Mason Mount's brilliant curled effort in the fourth minute put Tuchel's men in control from the get-go and they haven't looked back.

Romelu Lukaku is threatening the Peacocks' defense each time Chelsea venture forward, with the absence of skipper Luke Ayling showing.

Daniel James' red card has made Jesse Marsch's mission an even more difficult task.

Leeds currently sit 18th in the league, level on points with 17th-placed Burnley, but the Clarets have a game in hand.

Meanwhile for the Blues, it's looking like a vital win ahead of a huge FA Cup final this Saturday (May 14).

They travel to Wembley Stadium to face Liverpool, looking to finish the season with yet another trophy, having already won the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. Chelsea, however, lost the EFL Cup final to Liverpool in February.

Fans will be hoping Mateo Kovacic is fit in time to play the big game.