Chelsea vs Newcastle match preview: Premier League clash in SW6

Chelsea team news

After the Norwich game, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel addressed the absence of Christian Pulisic and the halftime substitution of Cesar Azpilicueta. The American international was not even named in the squad to which the German manager replied:

"“He did not feel well, Christian, in the morning when we wanted to leave. So we decided to leave him at home.”"

When asked about the halftime substitution of the skipper, Azpilicueta, Tuchel added that the right wingback was dealing with a stomach issue. The German felt it best to take him out before there were any issues further down the line.

Tuchel also added that the situations of both Azpilicueta and Pulisic are not serious, so fans can expect them to return to the team this Sunday. Marcos Alonso and Callum Hudson-Odoi—who were previously not available—have returned to team training and can feature in the game, as well. The only long-term injuries for Chelsea are Ben Chilwell and Reece James. Chilwell will definitely not play for the remainder of the season as he is recovering from his ACL injury, whereas Reece James will miss up to three more games after Newcastle after picking up a muscular problem against Burnley.

Newcastle team news

Newcastle will be missing quite a few important players too. After the game against Southampton, Howe has confirmed that both Joelinton and Allan Saint-Maximin are a doubt for the trip to Stamford Bridge. The Newcastle head coach said the former was managing a groin issue that will cause him to miss a few games. As for Saint-Maximin, Howe said he is ill and his status is unknown. Fabian Schar was forced off in the closing stages of the Saints game also. The Swiss centerhalf has been managing a groin issue for a number of weeks, and Howe is hoping he will be available to face Chelsea. Apart from this, the likes of Trippier and Callum Wilson will also miss the trip to London.