Former Premier League forward Paul Merson has played it pretty safe when it comes to his prediction for Newcastle United vs Chelsea on Saturday.
The international break is finally over, meaning Newcastle can get back to competing on all fronts with a knackered squad that is crippled with injuries.
While it is great to have the Magpies back after a fortnight, the game against Chelsea kicks off what is going to be a really challenging week for Eddie Howe and his players.
The Newcastle squad was pushed to its limit before the break, and it does not look like Howe’s side will be much stronger for the game against the Blues. Alexander Isak looks set to return from a groin injury, but there is also the possibility of Sean Longstaff missing out due to an ankle problem.
On top of that, Chelsea are starting to click under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.
It should be a great game at St James’ Park on Saturday, and it is one that Paul Merson thinks will end in a draw.
Paul Merson predicts Newcastle and Chelsea to draw 1-1
As part of his latest column for Sportskeeda, Merson has predicted the scores for every Premier League game this weekend. He believes Newcastle vs Chelsea will be a 1-1 draw.
“This is going to be another huge game,” he wrote.
“It’s one of those games where the result will be dictated by the availability of players. If Chelsea can get through the first 30 minutes without getting conceding a goal, this could be an extremely interesting encounter.
“Chelsea are starting to adapt to Mauricio Pochettino’s style. They are able to give any side a run for their money at this point. I think Chelsea have to stick with Nicolas Jackson, Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer in attack. Sterling and Palmer have been in great form and they will be key here once again.
“Chelsea’s team, at the moment, is starting to pick itself and it’s a good thing. Earlier, we used to sit around wondering how they were going to line up. But that’s changed now.
“Despite all that, Newcastle at home are always up for any challenge and I see this game ending in a draw.”
A point might not be a bad result for Newcastle
Newcastle United should believe they can beat anyone at home, and that will be the case when Chelsea arrive at St James’ Park. We beat them there last season, with Joe Willock scoring a stunning winner in front of the Gallowgate.
A repeat result would be perfect ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League trip to Paris. Newcastle will need to real belief to beat PSG, so a win against Chelsea would give them a major confidence boost.
But with Newcastle boasting so many injuries and Howe needing to manage his squad, I think a lot of fans would take a point if they were offered one right now.
That is what Merson thinks the Magpies will get, despite being really impressed with Chelsea and their recent resurgence.
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