Paul Merson has questioned Chelsea’s ability to beat Newcastle United at St James’ Park today (May 11). Both sides have 63 points, with the Magpies leading the Blues on goal difference for fourth spot. Manchester City are two points ahead of them in third place.
Right behind them in sixth, Aston Villa are also on 63 points, but have played one more game. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest are in seventh place with 61 points. A loss for either the Blues or the Magpies could seriously affect their top-five chances with just two games left.
Paul Merson, however, does not expect Chelsea to beat Newcastle United, especially at St. James Park. Speaking to Sportskeeda, he remarked:
“What an exciting football match! Chelsea have hit a bit of form lately so this is a hard one to call. But I still have to go with Newcastle here. I just think home advantage will be a massive factor in this game…
“If I’m not mistaken, Chelsea haven’t won at this ground for three or four years now! I’d be shocked if Chelsea got anything from this game.”
Chelsea arrive at the game after a comprehensive 3-1 victory over Liverpool, which has boosted their chances for Champions League qualification. The Blues, though, have a crowded fixture schedule, having only played in the Conference League on Thursday.
On the other hand, Newcastle are fresh from their Carabao Cup triumph. They will have the backing of their supporters at St. James’ Park to generate a thunderous atmosphere to help their top-five quest.
Noni Madueke targets Champions League charge as Chelsea take on Newcastle in battle for fourth spot
Chelsea’s Noni Madueke has explained exactly how much today’s Premier League match against Newcastle United matters. Ahead of the game, the winger revealed in an interview:
“It’s a massive game. The three games we have left are going to be vital, but we definitely want to go to St James’ Park and try and get a win. That’s how we will approach it, and we can do it.
“Everyone knows we have aspirations to finish in the Champions League positions, and the great win against Liverpool was a massive step forward.”
Chelsea arrive at the match in good form, having won their last five games in all competitions,. This includes the 3-1 victory over Liverpool and qualifying for the Europa Conference League final. Enzo Maresca’s team is most likely to feature the team that defeated Liverpool, with key players like Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Romeo Lavia in the starting XI.