Chelsea FC welcome Newcastle United to Stamford Bridge this weekend for a Premier League clash. Will the Blues continue their undefeated run?
After a dramatic 1-1 draw with Manchester United last Sunday, Chelsea host Newcastle at Stamford Bridge in Saturday’s late kickoff. The Blues will be looking for their first win in three Premier League games, following draws with United and Watford, but will also have an eye on Tuesday’s Champions League fixture away to PSG. Guus Hiddink is unbeaten in 11 games as Chelsea boss, but has only won five, meaning three points against Newcastle is vital.
The last time these two teams met was back in September, when Chelsea rallied late to secure a point in a 2-2 draw at St James’ Park, thanks to goals from Ramires and Willian in the last 10 minutes. The Blues will be hoping for a better result against the Toon on Saturday, and Newcastle sit just one point above the relegation zone in 17th place.
Team News:
Chelsea have been dealt a fresh blow in the build-up to Saturday’s match, after striker Diego Costa broke his nose in training this week. Guus Hiddink is hopeful that Costa will be passed fit to play, and if he does, the Spaniard would join a long line of Chelsea players to wear a protective face mask in action.
Young centre-back Jake Clarke-Salter has been promoted to train with the first team after Kurt Zouma’s injury, but he is unlikely to feature during this campaign, especially with new signing Matt Miazga regularly training as well. It’s likely that Gary Cahill will slot in next to captain John Terry for Saturday’s clash.
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Hiddink’s other January signing, Alexandre Pato, is unlikely to feature against Newcastle, as he is yet to reach match fitness. Eden Hazard may make his return to the starting line-up, after coming on as a substitute in recent games, as he returns to full strength. On-loan Radamel Falcao remains sidelined, in addition to want-away striker Remy, who misses out with a calf injury.
Newcastle have been boosted by the return of midfielder Jack Colback, after he missed recent matches with a hamstring injury. However, the away side are short at the back, with both Paul Dummett and Massadio Haidara ruled out. Striker Emmanuel Riviere has returned after suffering a knee injury, and is in the match-day squad.
Stats:
Newcastle United have taken 13 points off Chelsea in the last five seasons, more than any other team in the league.
The Blues have not kept a clean sheet in seven of their last 11 games against Newcastle.
Chelsea are currently on the longest unbeaten run in the Premier League, going unbeaten in nine matches (W3 D6 L0).
Next: Kurt Zouma’s Injury And Why Young Players Matter To Fans
Writer’s Prediction:
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle United.