Rafa Benitez will be up against his former team Chelsea when Newcastle United travel to West London to take on the defending champions this weekend. The Magpies had been on a four-match losing run but ended it with a 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
Regardless of their current form, the Magpies need to put on a strong performance to have any chance of revival. Chelsea have been on a good run as they have won their last three games quite convincingly.
Benitez had been at the helm at the Stamford Bridge for a brief period in 2012-13 and it remains to be seen how the Blues supporter welcomes him. Benitez’s side has been shaken by injuries as Benitez won’t be able to use the service of Jamaal Lascelles, Christian Atsu and Paul Dummett.
Chelsea are not the same them like they were in last season so Benitez will have his chance if they manage to exploit their weak points.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Newcastle United Starting Lineup Against Chelsea
Defence
Benitez’s primary target had been the addition of a keeper but he couldn’t manage to fulfil his demand. Rob Elliot has been the preferred choice between the sticks and he will be called back in this match.
Lascelles’ injury has blown away the lid of the Toon as the defence has a number of loose ends Nine goals have been leaked in the last three game and they cannot afford to ship any further.
Ciaran Clark and Florian Lejeune will pair up once again in the heart of the defence.
Chancel Mbemba will be on the left side of the defence while DeAndre Yedlin will be on the opposite side.
Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey wasn’t featured in the match as Benitez opted for a double pivot in the last match. But the English international is likely to make his way to the team as he has the knack to knit the team with his brilliant build up from the midfield.
Mikel Merino will be at the base of the midfield for his breaking up duty.
Attack
Goals have been pretty hard to get this time. Jacob Murphy has been pretty inspirational with his inputs from the left side and he is likely to be given a long run.
Matt Ritchie will be on the right side.
Ayoze Perez will be in the no. 10 position,
Perhaps the time has come to give Aleksandar Mitrovic a chance to prove his worth.
