Chelsea’s fightback against Newcastle was complete in the second half when Joao Pedro found the net to make it 2-2 at St. James’ Park.
The Brazilian gave Robert Sanchez his first assist of the season when he controlled his goal kick, beating Malick Thiaw and providing a composed finish to level the game.
Chelsea’s big-money signing now has five Premier League goals this season, adding to three assists in his first 17 league games for the club.
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Joao Pedro during Newcastle United v Chelsea in Premier League
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A lot of these have come when he has played in the centre forward position in Liam Delap’s absence, even if many believe this is not his best role.
Newcastle United v Chelsea - Premier League
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Chelsea chiefs will be delighted as former Newcastle target Joao Pedro scores against them
The Blues spent around £60m on the addition of Pedro from Brighton, a price which may have inflated slightly due to strong interest in his services from Saturday’s opponents, Newcastle.
As the Magpies looked to replace wantaway striker Alexander Isak, they turned to Pedro as one of their first choices, before Chelsea hijacked the deal.
They benefitted from acting quickly with the Brazilian’s three goals in the final two games of the Club World Cup, and have now rescued a point against the side who would have been boasting him against them if they hadn’t swooped in.
Chelsea’s benefit from this scenario also works to their detriment when taking into account the player who scored against them on Saturday.
Chelsea Unveil New Signing Joao Pedro at St Regis Hotel
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Chelsea were very keen on Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade during the summer
Before the additions of Pedro and Delap, the Blues were eyeing up Nick Woltemade as their marquee striker signing.
Perhaps the biggest sigh of relief for Todd Boehly and co came because of the fact that one of their former targets had scored twice to put them 2-0 down.
Woltemade has nine goals to his name in all competitions since joining Newcastle, although is now set for a bigger fight for minutes with Yoanne Wissa.
Chelsea’s own striker business is far from complete. They are set to add Emanuel Emegha to their ranks at the end of the season from Strasbourg.
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