Newcastle United lock horns with Chelsea in an important Premier League clash at St. James’ Park on Saturday.
The Magpies sit seventh in the table with 20 points from 12 matches. Eddie Howe’s side were unable to enter the international break on a high as they saw their seven-game unbeaten league run ended by Bournemouth two weeks ago.
The Blues, on the other hand, are 10th in the table with 16 points from 12 games. They went into the international break off the back of a riveting 4-4 draw with Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.
With both teams looking to return to winning ways and climb the Premier League table, here are the key battles that could define the outcome of this exciting game.
#Bruno Guimaraes vs Conor Gallagher
Bruno Guimaraes is available after serving a one-match ban last time out, and he will walk straight into Eddie Howe’s starting XI against Chelsea. The Brazilian has blown hot and cold this season, yet he remains one of Howe’s most important players.
Having Bruno back at the base of the midfield should allow Newcastle to build attacks smoothly, unlike their struggles in the 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth. In the Blues corner stands Conor Gallagher, whose qualities will greatly trouble Newcastle’s engine-room resistance. With his energy and stamina, he drives his team up the pitch and is always waiting for chances to split the defensive line.
Gallagher also protects the ball well and covers plenty of ground to force opposition mistakes—an unsettling thought given Bruno’s tendency at times to invite pressure. All in all, the midfield battle between Bruno and Gallagher will be an interesting watch and the one coming out on top should have a big say in deciding the outcome of this game.
#Raheem Sterling vs Kieran Trippier
Raheem Sterling has arguably been Chelsea’s standout player this term. He has scored in two of the Blues’ last three games, including a strike against his former club Man City at Stamford Bridge before the international break. Given his form, the Englishman is certain to keep his place on the left flank.
Standing in Sterling’s way will be his international teammate, Kieran Tripper, who has been solid at the back for Newcastle since last season. The 33-year-old’s positional awareness and experience are his key strengths while coming up against quick forwards and will once again be crucial in order to stop Sterling from having any kind of impact on the game.
Also, whoever starts ahead of Trippier on Newcastle’s right flank will need to put in a defensive shift and track back diligently to keep the in-form Sterling quiet.
#Anthony Gordon vs Reece James
Alexander Isak’s potential return from groin injury should see Anthony Gordon start in his natural position on the left flank against Chelsea. The 22-year-old has been among Newcastle’s best performers this season, and the English winger’s directness, industry, flair and energy could create chaos in the Chelsea backline.
Reece James has had to battle injuries in the last 15-18 months, and the lack of consistency have seen his performance levels dip for Chelsea. However, now fully fit, the England international will be looking to produce a top display to keep Gordon’s threat under control down the left wing.
While both these players are speedy, James isn’t as defensively great as he is going forward, so Mauricio Pochettino is expected to have a plan in place to double up on Gordon whenever he is on the ball.
