Newcastle vs Chelsea: Premier League Preview

Newcastle enter the clash sitting fourth, just ahead of Chelsea on goal difference, and will be eager to bounce back from a mixed run of recent results. Eddie Howe’s side have dropped points in two of their last three league games—a 4-1 defeat at Aston Villa and a 1-1 draw with Brighton—slowing their momentum at a crucial stage. However, their home form remains a key strength. The Magpies have won five consecutive league games at St James’ Park, netting at least three goals in four of those matches, including big wins over Manchester United (4-1) and Crystal Palace (5-0).

Historically, Newcastle have also enjoyed recent success against Chelsea on Tyneside, winning seven of the last 11 Premier League meetings at home. They also knocked Chelsea out of the EFL Cup earlier this season and have won all three of Eddie Howe’s home clashes with the Blues by a combined score of 7-1.

Chelsea, though, travel north in resurgent form. Enzo Maresca’s side are on a three-match winning streak in the Premier League—their second-longest run of the season—after dispatching Liverpool 3-1 last weekend. That victory followed comeback wins over Fulham and Southampton, marking a sharp turnaround after a post-Christmas slump saw them slide out of the title race. With five straight wins across all competitions, including two European triumphs, Chelsea are regaining momentum at just the right time.

While their recent away record had been poor—no wins in eight prior to their late 2-1 comeback at Fulham—Maresca’s men will be aiming for back-to-back away league victories for the first time since December. Historically, however, Chelsea’s visits to St James’ Park have often been difficult, and the Blues will need to maintain their recent upward trajectory to get a result.

In team news, Newcastle’s injury list remains a concern. Jamaal Lascelles (knee) and Lewis Hall (foot) are ruled out for the season, and Joelinton is also likely to miss the run-in, delivering another blow to Howe’s plans. Matt Targett is out with a hamstring injury, and Fabian Schär is a doubt, which could see Sven Botman return alongside Dan Burn in defence. Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s standout performer, continues to be crucial; the Swedish striker has netted 23 goals this season, 12 of them at home, and has scored in each of his last four appearances against Chelsea.

Chelsea are still without Wesley Fofana (hamstring) and Aaron Anselmino, while Christopher Nkunku remains a doubt. Youngster Marc Guiu may return to bolster options from the bench. Romeo Lavia is back in training, and Maresca could field an unchanged side for the third league game in a row. Cole Palmer, fresh from scoring against Liverpool to end a 12-game drought, will be key to Chelsea’s attacking hopes, supported by Moises Caicedo, who has impressed in a hybrid full-back/midfield role.

With both teams eyeing a place at Europe’s top table and just three matches left to play, Sunday’s clash promises intensity, goals, and high drama as the race for the Champions League heats up.