Chelsea lock horns with Newcastle United on Monday hoping to continue their excellent start under Thomas Tuchel. The Blues are still yet to taste a defeat following the appointment of the German tactician, although they look far from impressive in their recent win over Barnsley. Nevertheless, a victory over the Magpies on Monday could go a long way in helping them further push for a top-four finish this season.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup Vs Newcastle United
Defence
Thiago Silva has once again been ruled out for the Newcastle United fixture due to his muscle injury. His absence should once again see the Blues rely on the services of Kurt Zouma. The Frenchman should get the nod ahead Andreas Christensen, who picked up a minor blow against Barnsley.
There could be other changes in the backline as Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta look to return to the starting eleven. Rudiger, in particular, has found a new lease of life under Tuchel and should operate at the heart of the three-man Chelsea backline.
A further change in the defensive unit should see the Kepa Arrizabalaga making way for Edouardo Mendy in goal.
Midfield
Tuchel could shuffle his pack in the midfield department as well. N’Golo Kante earned a rare start under the German tactician in midweek but will likely make way for Jorginho, whose technically adept style of play is much more suited to Chelsea’s gameplan at the moment. The same can be said for Billy Gilmour, who is likely to be replaced by Mateo Kovacic in the double pivot.
Elsewhere, Callum Hudson-Odoi operated as a right-sided wingback once again against Barnsley but may have to settle for a place on the bench in this one as Reece James looks to return to the starting eleven. Ben Chilwell, meanwhile, should replace Marcos Alonso on the opposite flank.
Attack
Kai Havertz remains a minor doubt and his fitness will be assessed ahead of this fixture. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that the German international will be given a start. Instead, Tuchel could recall Mason Mount in the attacking midfield role alongside Christian Pulisic, although the Chelsea manager does have alternatives in Hudson-Odoi and Hakim Ziyech.
And finally, the Blues attack should once again be spearheaded by Timo Werner who will continue his search for goals following a disastrous start to his career at Stamford Bridge. He will replace Tammy Abraham in the number nine slot.
