Comeback Continues – How Chelsea Can Overcome Rampant Newcastle

Chelsea are undergoing something of a comeback, with strong performances and results finally returning to Stamford Bridge after a period of severe turbulence. Newcastle United are the next challenge, so find out more about whether or not the Blues can expect a result against the Magpies.

Chelsea and Newcastle’s Form So Far

After a couple of seasons of relatively poor football, and similarly low results, the West London side are having something of a revival under Mauricio Pochettino. Despite being down in tenth in the Premier League table, Chelsea have only lost once in their past six, with a 4-4 draw with leaders Manchester City being the most impressive result of the bunch. The side are showing some real character and consistency, something Cobham has missed for a long time now.

Newcastle are in a somewhat similar situation to Chelsea at the moment. Despite having one of the strongest squads in the league and a solid level of investment, Eddie Howe’s side have lost their last two, winning just once in the league since September. Pochettino could look to exploit these clear frailties in the match, with the Magpies clearly missing a bit of confidence at the moment.  

Newcastle Tactical Preview

In spite of holding some of the best talent in the Premier League and having one of the grandest budgets the world of football has ever seen, Eddie Howe still manages like he’s running a Bournemouth side desperately scrapping against relegation. With a focus on defensive sturdiness, winning set pieces and a level of timewasting that would make Sam Allardyce jealous. Do not expect to see open and flowing football, from the home side at the very least.

When attacking, transition and pace are the name of the game. Newcastle signed Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon for a reason, and the pair’s blistering speed and precise finishing are often the difference between struggling and getting a result. A delicate combination of shutting them out of the game and holding possession to limit the counter will be essential.

Chelsea Injury Concerns

It wouldn’t be an important match without an extended injury list for the Blues, and the Newcastle clash is no different. Wesley Fofana and Ben Chilwell are still missing with long-term injuries, as the list grows with Levi Colwill, Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka all being injured with no apparent return date. Injury uncertainty is increasingly looking like the only thing that is certain at Chelsea in recent months.

There are a couple of major boosts to the squad, however, according to the UK’s major betting sites listed here. Midfield youngster Romeo Lavia may make his debut for the Blues after signing from Southampton with an existing injury. In even better news, monster signing Christopher Nkunku could finally make his first competitive appearance in a Chelsea shirt after an extended period out of the side. These could be the returns the London side need to get up and running properly this season.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Newcastle

Mauricio Pochettino has a few options for his starting lineup, and is likely to play fairly aggressively in this fixture. Robert Sanchez starts in goal, protected by Thiago Silva and Axel Disasi at centre-back. Marc Cucurella and Reece James both get the license to push forwards, protected by Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.

In the front line, Cole Palmer retains his place in the side on the right wing opposite an excellent Raheem Sterling, with Conor Gallagher potentially losing his spot to Christopher Nkunku’s return from injury. Nicolas Jackson’s significant uptick in form is rewarded with another place in the first eleven.

Chelsea vs Newcastle Predictions and Odds

Newcastle will come to ruin Chelsea’s day, but if the squad selection is right there is no reason the Blues can’t secure all three points here. Keep a handle on any attempts at timewasting and riling up the side, deal with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes efficiently and the Magpies are there for the taking at St James’ Park.