Newcastle vs Chelsea Preview, Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Chelsea are in the north West to face Newcastle United at St James Park on Saturday afternoon looking to get back to winning ways.

The Blues surrendered a two-goal advantage for the second game running to allow Reading to snatch a late draw on Wednesday night so interim boss Rafa Benitez will be keen for a response from his players.

The Spaniard has seen the pressure mounting again in recent weeks after only picking up one win in five games and there has been speculation suggesting he may not see out the season in the Chelsea hot-seat.

The game will see the return of Demba Ba to St James’ Park after the striker made the move to West London in January, and he will be keen to start ahead of Fernando Torres this weekend to face his former side.

The European champions will face a new-look Newcastle side after boss Alan Pardew added five French players to his squad in January with Moussa Sissoko making an immediate impact during Tuesday 2-1 win at Aston Villa.

Team News

Rafa Benitez will have goalkeeper Petr Cech back for the game after he returned to training following a groin injury. John Terry is also expected to return to the starting line-up after being left out in midweek and he is likely to play alongside Gary Cahill at the back.

Striker Ba is likely to come in for Torres after the Spaniard once again failed to find the net last time out. Ryan Bertrand may continue in his more advanced role with Victor Moses and John Obi Mikel away on international duty, while Eden Hazard completes a three-game ban. Juan Mata is expected to start despite being forced off early against Reading.

Toon boss Alan Pardew may name an un-changed line-up for the game. January signings Moussa Sissoko and Yoan Gouffran are expected to retain their places as is defender Steven Taylor, who has only recently returned from injury.

Sylvain Marveaux is also back in contention but Hatem Ben Arfa remains out with a hamstring problem while Cheick Tiote is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty with the Ivory Coast.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted Score

Chelsea have an excellent recent record at St James Park, winning three and losing none of their last five visits in the league and have only conceded once during that time. So despite their recent poor form the Blues should be favorites to win this one. Newcastle 1-2 Chelsea

What would your line up be and what’s your score prediction for the game? Get involved in the comments section below.