Newcastle United made it out of their match against Southampton with all three points, despite finishing the match with nine players on the pitch. Tomorrow, they will need a similarly spirited effort as they look to go on the road and upset Chelsea without the help of at least three key players.
Player to Watch
Newcastle United: Whoever starts up top in place of Callum Wilson
Whether it’s Andy Carroll, Dwight Gayle, or Joelinton, or a combination of two of them, there are big boots to fill up top without Callum Wilson. There’s a plus side to any of these three players getting the chance, but this Chelsea match is a good time to make a statement to earn the first-choice designation during Wilson’s upcoming, lengthy absence.
Chelsea: Mason Mount
The young midfielder has impressed under Thomas Tuchel’s leadership for the Blues. He scored the opening goal vs. Sheffield United. After getting rested in the cup match this week, Mount will be back in the mix and can be a player to break down a defensive Newcastle United approach.
NUFC Availability Update
When he addressed the media a couple of days ago, Steve Bruce delivered the tough news on Manquillo, Schar, and Wilson. He also stated that Ciaran Clark should be back after the birth of his child last week. Also on the backline, Jamaal Lascelles and Federico Fernandez could be set to return from injuries.
Key to Victory for Newcastle United
- No careless mistakes at the back: Whether that’s an own goal (like they conceded in the reverse match) or a foul in the box (Chelsea’s last two EPL matches have been won by penalties from Jorginho). The Magpies aren’t healthy enough to overcome a cheap goal.
- A heroic solo play from Miguel Almiron or Allan Saint-Maximin. We don’t know who will start up top, but there’s a very solid chance these two are in the starting XI. Bruce will likely have the team set up to defend, so it may take a moment of brilliance from their two most explosive, healthy players to get a goal.
- SOME of possession. Newcastle almost never carry the edge in possession and that’s fine. But, they need to keep that number tomorrow somewhere closer to 40% than 20%. Holding that little of possession just gives talented teams too many opportunities to hurt you.