Newcastle United have notoriously struggled on their trips to London, with Stamford Bridge anything but a happy hunting ground.
Since the introduction of the Premier League, the Magpies have only recorded two victories on their travels to West London. However, when the sides met earlier in the season, Newcastle had a right to feel hard done by.
Positivity
For Newcastle to get any kind of positive result, it’s crucial that they provide the service for Salomon Rondon to cause havoc. That’s where Matt Ritchie becomes so important.
The winger netted his first goal of the season from the penalty spot against Blackburn in the FA Cup. He is currently top of the Magpies’ assists chart with three converted passes and, with chances set to be limited to counter-attacks and set-pieces, delivery is key.
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Rondon has proven he is a handful and, with two headed goals so far this season, service is vital.
Jonjo Shelvey has had his thigh injury assessed, Kenedy is unable to play against his parent club and Ki-Sung Yueng is on international duty. With Jacob Murphy the only other midfielder with an assist, the onus is on Ritchie to step up and deliver.
