Chelsea’s quest for Premier League redemption begins this Sunday as they welcome a struggling Newcastle United to Stamford Bridge. The Blues have experienced a dip in form recently, drawing at home to Nottingham Forest before succumbing to a disappointing defeat to Liverpool on the road. Enzo Maresca’s side will be eager to bounce back to winning ways, and a home match against the Magpies provides the ideal setting to do so.
A fully-fit squad at Maresca’s disposal is a rare luxury, and the Italian will be able to select from a bolstered pool of talent. The return of Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana from suspension will undoubtedly strengthen the Blues’ backline, while Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Reece James are all available to feature in the starting eleven.
Chelsea’s inconsistent form on the road is well-documented, with a solitary victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the seaside being their only away triumph this term. However, the well-being of their home crowd could play a significant factor in their chances of victory, having won three of their last four matches at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca’s men will need to weather the early storm, as Newcastle’s energetic counter-attacking style can catch teams off guard. The Magpies’ Alexander Isak, in particular, will pose a significant threat, with his lightning-quick movements and clinical finishing ability. Chelsea’s backline, marshaled by the returning Wesley Fofana, will need to be at their best to contain the away side’s aerial threats.
In the absence of any team news, speculation has centered around the goalkeeping department. Robert Sanchez’s recent form has been a subject of debate, with many calling for the introduction of Danish shot-stopper Filip Jorgensen. For now, Sanchez will retain his spot, but one wonders how long he will be able to maintain his position in the pecking order.
In the buildup to the game, speculation about the starting lineup has been rife. The inclusion of Malo Gusto at left-back appears likely, given his impressive display in the Conference League win over Panathinaikos. Moises Caicedo, who has impressed in recent matches, will be expected to feature prominently in the midfield, while Romeo Lavia’s return from injury enhances the options available to Maresca.
Further up the pitch, Noni Madueke’s mobility and pace will be crucial in bypassing Newcastle’s left-flank defender, while Cole Palmer’s seven goals and five assists in nine Premier League appearances make him a key attacking threat. Nicolas Jackson’s towering presence in front of goal will also be a welcome addition, as he looks to add to his tally in this fixture.
As the teams take to the pitch, Chelsea’s fans will fervently hope that their side can end their recent poor run and exact revenge on a Newcastle United side that has struggled to adapt to the Premier League. Victory would not only ease the pressure on Maresca’s interim management but also propel Chelsea up the Premier League table, where they currently linger in 12th position. For now, a strong performance at home could signal a much-needed pivot in their season.
