Predicted Chelsea XI vs Newcastle: Cucurella starts in 4-2-3-1 formation

Right Back: Reece James (England)

Paul Brown on Reece James:

"“I hope now that he’s able to get a good long run without any injury issues because he’s such a brilliant player. He’s a joy to watch and Chelsea just aren’t the same team without him. I think he’s a perfect fit for Mauricio Pochettino there as well and I think if he can just stay fit, he’s going to have a big season for Chelsea.”"

The fans have already started noticing the leader in him. All he needs to do now is stay fit, involved and let his quality silence the doubters.

Centre Back: Thiago Silva (Brazil)

Thiago Silva will become Chelsea’s oldest-ever outfield player if he features against Newcastle United on Saturday. The veteran is also the only Chelsea outfield player to play every minute of our 12 league games this season and he’ll be expected to keep his spot in the starting XI.

Centre Back: Benoit Badiashile (France)

Levi Colwill missed the game against City due to a minor shoulder injury which was also responsible for his withdrawal from England’s squad. He’s back in training but Pochettino might not want to risk starting him. On the other hand, Axel Disasi was away with the French National team. This situation should give Benoit Badiashile his opportunity to get back into the starting XI.

Left Back: Marc Cucurella (Spain)

Marc Cucurella will also be expected to retain his spot in the playing XI after yet another convincing display in the last game. The penalty decision was unfortunate but he had a great game overall. The fan base has been asking him to work on his finishing as he keeps putting himself in the right places and he needs to get on the scoresheet sooner than later.