No matter what happens, Steve Bruce will be forced to make four changes to the Newcastle side that beat Southampton.
Two of those changes will come in defence, with Javi Manquillo and Fabian Schar set for spells on the sidelines.
However, Bruce should consider naming an almost entirely new back four at Stamford Bridge.
Isaac Hayden was one of Newcastle’s star performers last week, once again doing a job out of position. Bruce even went out of his way to praise the versatility of the 25-year-old.
With Federico Fernandez and Jamaal Lascelles injured and Ciaran Clark attending the birth of his child, Bruce had no choice but to play Hayden in defence.
But on Monday night, Bruce will have a choice. And for me, it’s an easy one.
While he did impress in defence, Hayden is at his best in midfield. And with Jeff Hendrick suspended, there is a space in the middle.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s centre back crisis looks to be easing.
Clark missed last week’s game due to a family matter rather than injury, and seems certain to start against Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Bruce is hopeful that Fernandez and Lascelles will return, admitting that both players ‘have a chance’.
On top of that, the Magpies have Paul Dummett too, who was superb off the bench last week. However, he is more suited to a back five.
Holding midfield for Hayden
Bruce has got decent options in defence, but not so much in midfield.
Both Sean and Matty Longstaff seem out of favour – although at least one of them should return to the bench against Chelsea.
When it comes to defensive midfielders at Newcastle, there is no one better than Hayden.
He can protect a new-look defence, nullifying Chelsea who will try and exploit any space in between the lines.
Hayden proved how good he is in this role against Everton, and he should return to that position on Monday night.
If we’re going to get a result against Chelsea, Isaac Hayden will once again be pivotal – no matter where he plays.
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