Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League on 44 points. They most continue to gain points as fifth place Arsenal and Manchester United are just three and six points behind them, respectively.
The Blues are undefeated in their last three matches with two of those fixtures ending in wins. Chelsea drew nil-nil with Southampton last time out and will be looking to get back to winning ways.
Newcastle are just two points above the relegation zone. The Magpies have won just once in their last six matches. Newcastle’s most recent match saw them lose 2-0 to Manchester United. Rafael Benitez must stop his team’s poor form as relegation is a real possibility for the club.
Benitez will know it is difficult to get points at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have dominated the last six fixtures against Newcastle United winning four and drawing one in all competitions. Newcastle’s only recent win against Chelsea came at the end of last season as Antonio Conte was headed out the door.
Maurizio Sarri’s team defeated Newcastle earlier this season 2-1 at St. James’ Park. Each of the clubs’ last six games have seen three or more goals scored. Stamford Bridge has been a fortress for Chelsea when they have played Newcastle. The Blues have won their last six home matches against Newcastle in all competitions.
Benitez’s team has tallied the fewest goals in the Premier League with just 15. Eight of those goals have come away from home. However, Benitez does prefer to sit his top striker Saloman Rondon against the league’s top sides. Rondon has tallied five goals and two assists. He is needed in Newcastle’s starting XI if they are to have any chance of winning.
Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has a hamstring and could miss the fixture. The Blues have also lost the services of midfielder Cesc Fabregas who is set to join Monaco to help their relegation survival fight. Newcastle will be without players Ki Sung-Yueng and Yoshinori Muto as both are away at the Asian Cup. Meanwhile, midfielder Jonjo Shelvey and Federico Fernandez may return after spells out with injuries.
Chelsea have found scoring to be difficult recently. However, based on the team’s performances against Newcastle over their last six games, the Blues will get enough goals to win. Newcastle have been poor in front of goal, so expect Benitez to set up defensively. Due to their defensive play, Chelsea will earn the win and a clean sheet.