Newcastle United can take their unbeaten run into double figures when they face Chelsea this afternoon.
The Magpies made it nine without defeat on Thursday by beating Southampton 2-1, and now put their impressive run on the line against the European champions.
It will be the first game at Stamford Bridge since Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government, a decision that has rocked the Blues.
It could be an interesting atmosphere in London, but how will Eddie Howe set his team up against Thomas Tuchel’s men?
Time for Javi Manquillo to return to Toon lineup
While Emil Krafth has been solid in recent weeks, it is time for a change at right-back.
Javi Manquillo was a late substitute in the win over Southampton, and should start against Chelsea. Krafth has been decent, but Manquillo is undoubtedly our second best right-back behind Kieran Trippier.
With fixtures piling up, Howe will be keen to freshen up his starting XI. However, that should be the only change in defence.
New role for Joelinton vs Chelsea
It was a shock to see Joelinton miss the clash with Southampton. The Brazilian was at St Mary’s, but wasn’t named on the bench.
However, he is expected to be fit for the game against Chelsea. And if he’s fit he should start. But the question is where.
The new midfield trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock performed brilliantly on Thursday, with the latter playing in a more advanced role.
Bruno did well on his first start, and deserves to retain his place.
Therefore, Howe should lean into Joelinton’s versatility and play him out wide. Jacob Murphy struggled at Southampton, and the £12million man should be dropped to the bench.
Joelinton has played out wide before, and could be a useful physical presence against a strong Chelsea side.
Saint-Maximin on the bench
Allan Saint-Maximin also missed the win over Southampton. He wasn’t even on the bench after returning the game prior versus Brighton.
Hopefully he’s available to face Chelsea, but a substitute role is probably most likely if he is.
While Newcastle are in red hot form, Chelsea present a different challenge. They’re the best team we’ll have faced since the defeat to Man City on December 19th.
If we can stay in the game, having a player like Saint-Maximin on the bench could be our secret weapon.
Predicted XI to face Chelsea: Dubravka; Manquillo, Schar, Burn, Targett; Joelinton, Willock, Shelvey, Guimaraes, Fraser; Wood.
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