Eddie Howe could finally make the change Newcastle United fans have been waiting for.
Anthony Gordon is pushing to start against Chelsea. The winger has not featured from the off in the Premier League since February. But with Joelinton ruled out, Gordon’s timing could not be better.
Howe will be forced into at least one change on Sunday. Newcastle are still in the Champions League race—but they must beat Chelsea to stay alive.
Read the latest Newcastle injury news ahead of clash against Chelsea in the Premier League
Here is the Newcastle predicted lineup vs Chelsea for their crucial Premier League clash at St James’ Park.
Predicted Newcastle XI vs Chelsea (4-3-3) - Premier League
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
A nailed-on starter. Pope remains vital to this team, especially with Chelsea’s front line showing more confidence in recent weeks. Commanding in the air, alert in 1v1s—he keeps his place.
Right-back: Kieran Trippier
Trippier was a doubt after limping off at Brighton. But Howe expects him to start. His leadership, delivery, and tactical nous are irreplaceable. Newcastle will need his calm head against fast Chelsea wingers.
Centre-back: Fabian Schar
Another injury scare. Another likely start. Schar has played through knocks all season and is still the most composed ball-playing defender Newcastle have. He stays in the XI for Newcastle vs Chelsea.
Centre-back: Dan Burn
With Jamaal Lascelles out, Burn partners Schar again. His aerial strength will be needed against set pieces, but it is his reading of the game that will be more important if Chelsea play on the break.
Left-back: Tino Livramento
With Lewis Hall and Matt Targett both sidelined, Livramento starts again. He has the recovery speed to handle Chelsea’s wide men. Still developing, but this will be another big test of his credentials.
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Central midfield: Bruno Guimaraes
No Joelinton means Bruno will carry even more responsibility. He must control the tempo and protect the back four. Against a Chelsea side that can dominate possession, this is his kind of game.
Central midfield: Sandro Tonali
Tonali has looked sharper recently. His ability to carry the ball through midfield could help Newcastle break lines and release Gordon and Isak early. With Longstaff still not fully fit, Tonali should start.
Central midfield: Joe Willock
Willock brings something different. Forward runs, pressing intensity, and support in transition. He is the closest like-for-like replacement for Joelinton available—and Newcastle will need that presence.
Right wing: Jacob Murphy
A reliable outlet. Murphy stretches play, tracks back, and gives balance to the front three. His role could change if Howe opts for Barnes instead, but for now, Murphy keeps his spot.
Striker: Alexander Isak
Unquestionable. Isak has scored in four straight games against Chelsea. His movement and finishing will give Chelsea nightmares again. The 23-goal forward is Newcastle’s biggest weapon—and the man for the moment.
Left wing: Anthony Gordon
He is back. After suspension and time out of the side, Gordon is finally in line to start. His directness and intensity are perfect for this game. If fit, he starts. And if he starts, expect fireworks.
Predicted Newcastle XI vs Chelsea (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Guimaraes, Tonali, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Gordon.