Last weekend, Chelsea managed to secure a point against Brentford with a 2-2 draw, while Eddie Howe's Newcastle side triumphed over Wolverhampton Wanderers with a convincing 3-0 win.
At the Gtech Community Stadium last weekend, Mauricio Pochettino and co-owner Todd Boehly faced criticism from frustrated fans as Chelsea narrowly avoided defeat against Brentford. Despite goals from Mads Roerslev and Yoane Wissa, Chelsea had to settle for a draw after Axel Disasi's late equalizer.
Pochettino acknowledged that he's not feeling the support from Chelsea fans following the team's recent struggles. With just one win in their last five Premier League games, Chelsea currently sit in 11th place, although a win against Newcastle would see them surpass their points total from the previous season.
The financial troubles of the club, with a reported pre-tax loss of £90.1m for the 2022-23 season, coupled with defensive issues, have added to the frustrations of Chelsea supporters.
Meanwhile, Newcastle comes into the match on the back of a 3-0 victory over Wolves, with goals from Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, and Tino Livramento. This win follows a successful FA Cup campaign, and Newcastle will be aiming to extend their winning streak to three games in all competitions.
Although Newcastle's away form has been inconsistent, with only 11 of their 40 points earned on the road, they will look to build on their recent performances. While Chelsea may have the home advantage, Newcastle has shown they can compete, as demonstrated by their 4-1 win over Chelsea last November.
Both teams will be eager to secure three points, but it remains to be seen who will come out on top in this Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Two key players in Chelsea's defense, Ben Chilwell and Levi Colwill, won't be available for the upcoming match due to knee and toe injuries respectively. Chilwell has even been referred to a specialist for his injury.With these absences, Chelsea is expected to switch to a back four formation, with Marc Cucurella likely to step in at left-back. Additionally, Conor Gallagher is also a doubt for the game as he deals with illness.
Although Benoit Badiashile and Carney Chukwuemeka are nearing a return to training, they won't be match fit yet. Meanwhile, Wesley Fofana, Lesley Ugochukwu, Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, and Romeo Lavia are still recovering from their respective injuries.
Newcastle United is facing defensive issues of its own, with Kieran Trippier sidelined until after the international break due to a calf injury. Lewis Hall, who is on loan from Chelsea, is ineligible to play against his parent club.
Tino Livramento, who scored his first goal for Newcastle last weekend, is likely to start in his place. Matt Targett, who has had limited playing time this season due to a hamstring injury, might feature on the bench.
Unfortunately, Newcastle's long-term absentees, including Callum Wilson, Nick Pope, and Joelinton, remain sidelined, along with the suspended Sandro Tonali.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Chelsea possible starting lineup:Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Sterling, Palmer, Mudryk; Jackson
Newcastle United possible starting lineup:
Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Botman, Burn; Willock, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
EXPERT PREDICTION
Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle United
Newcastle's poor defensive record away from home gives Chelsea hope for a win, but the Blues themselves have been inconsistent in defense. As a result, another exciting draw might be in store at Stamford Bridge.
