Newcastle United will welcome Chelsea at St. James’ Park this Saturday evening as they look to pick up maximum points from this home clash in the Premier League. The Magpies managed to secure a hard-fought win over Crystal Palace on penalties in the EFL Cup recently, so their confidence will be quite high ahead of this game.
Eddie Howe will set his men up in a 4-3-3 formation and could name a strong first XI for this clash at home. Callum Wilson will once again lead the charge for the Tyneside giants in the final third while Chris Wood drops to the bench.
4-3-3 Newcastle United Predicted Lineup To Face Chelsea
Defence
Nick Pope will operate in between the sticks for the Magpies after he secured a clean sheet versus the Eagles in midweek. Sven Botman will once again play along with Fabin Schar at the centre of the Newcastle backline. Their main focus would be to stop the opposition from creating too many chances on the counter.
Kieran Trippier will function as the right-back while Dan Burn hopes to give a good account of himself as the left-back. Howe will give both of them the option to pick and choose their moments to join in on the attack.
Jamal Lascelles will be named on the bench as he provides cover for the centre-back spots.
Midfield
Joe Willock, Bruno Guimaraes and Sean Longstaff will operate as the holding midfielders as they look to win most of the 50-50 duels at the centre of the park and orchestrate a few meaningful chances in the final third.
Jonjo Shelvey will be available for selection on the bench as he waits for his chance to shine in the second 45 minutes if Howe calls upon his services.
Attack
Joelinton will fill in as the left-sided wide player and would be expected to put in an energetic display on the left flank.
Miguel Almiron has been in red-hot form for Newcastle this season and will be a nailed-on start on the right wing. He would be eager to put his pace to good use and cause a lot of headaches for the Chelsea centre-backs this Saturday evening.
Callum Wilson is a significant concern for this game. However, Howe could choose to play him if he can pass a late fitness test as this will be Newcastle United’s last match before the 2022 FIFA World Cup break.
Chris Wood will be named on the bench and might come on to make an impact in the latter stages if required.
