Newcastle United will look to build on their superb start to the season when they host fellow top four candidates Chelsea on Saturday.
Newcastle sit third in the Premier League approaching the half way campaign after another win last time out, as they thrashed Southampton 4-1.
They also progressed in the cup midweek as they edged past Crystal Palace via penalties.
Chelsea were eliminated from the competition after losing 2-0 away to Manchester City, with both sides fielding rotated teams.
They are four without a win in the league after losing 1-0 at home to league leaders Arsenal, with Gabriel scoring the only goal.
Premier League form: Newcastle United W4 D1 L0; Chelsea W1 D2 L2
Premier League top scorers
Newcastle United – Miguel Almiron 8 goals
Chelsea – Kai Havertz & Raheem Sterling 3 goals each
Match history
Chelsea have a very good record against Newcastle, winning seven of the last eight league meetings between the two.
They won both meetings last term, including a comfortable 3-0 win at St. James’ Park with Reece James scoring twice.
Last five Premier League meetings
Chelsea 1 Newcastle United 0 – 13/02/22
Newcastle United 0 Chelsea 3 – 30/10/21
Chelsea 2 Newcastle United 0 – 15/02/21
Newcastle United 0 Chelsea 2 – 21/11/20
Newcastle United 1 Chelsea 0 – 18/01/20
Team news
Callum Wilson is expected to shake off an illness to start here, although Chris Wood will deputise if he doesn’t.
Jacob Murphy will likely keep Allan Saint Maximin on the bench here, with the in-form Miguel Almiron on the opposite flank.
Chelsea are a hard side to predict under Graham Potter, but a 3-4-3 formation is probable here.
Kepa remains out meaning Edouard Mendy will continue in goal.
Expected starting XI’s
Newcastle United (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Botman, Schar, Burn; Bruno, Joelinton, Willock; Almiron, Wilson, Murphy
Chelsea (3-4-3): Mendy; Azpilicueta, Silva, Cucurella; Loftus-Cheek, Gallagher, Kovacic, Sterling; Mount, Aubameyang, Havertz
Predictions
Result: Newcastle United
Newcastle have lost just once all season and are the form side in the division
Correct Score: 1-0
Newcastle barely concede and Chelsea have struggled for goals all season
Anytime Goalscorer: Miguel Almiron
Seven in his last seven and in superb form
