Replacing element for Neff u1721?

Hi. I've read some good posts here on replacing the element. I've managed to hard work of removing the fan (phew). But do I HAVE to remove the oven and install the element from the back, or can I pull the element free? I've tried removing the element a little, but where the wires connect to it seems difficult to get out, and I dont want to force it. Advice appreciated.