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Chelsea face Newcastle this weekend | Getty Images
A look at the pundit predictions for Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
Chelsea are back in action on Saturday when they face Newcastle United in another key test in their bid to finish in the top four this season. The Blues have been busy in cup and Champions League action of late, but they picked up a big win over Aston Villa last time out to move three points behind third and fourth.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are battling to secure any sort of European football amid a disappointing season, and they come into this one off the back of a home draw with FC Barcelona in the Champions League. Here we round up the pundit predictions from BBC Sport’s Chris Sutton and SportsKeeda’s Paul Merson for this fixture.
Paul Merson
“Chelsea produced a brilliant result against Aston Villa. But their display in the Champions League round of 16 first leg against PSG now means they are unlikely to go through to the next stage!
“I think it comes down to experience. Chelsea simply capitulated after the error from Filip Jorgensen. If they had a few more senior pros in that line-up, I'm sure they would have assessed the situation better and maybe managed the game a lot better to not concede the fourth and fifth goals.
“The only way I see Chelsea returning to the Champions League next season is if they can finish in the top five. So this is a must-win game at home against Newcastle. I was really impressed with Newcastle against Barcelona. Lewis Hall was amazing when he went up against Lamine Yamal. I believe Newcastle will feel positive about themselves after the draw with Barcelona.
“Realistically speaking, Newcastle have more to play for in the second leg next week unlike Chelsea. So I won't blame Eddie Howe if he decides to rest a few players for this game.
“I know Barcelona are a different beast at home. But they play a high line and with Anthony Gordon expected to start that game, Newcastle will fancy their chances. I'm backing Chelsea to win here because I expect Howe to prioritise the next game against Barcelona. Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Newcastle United.”
Chris Sutton
“Chelsea's recent record against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge is really good - they have won 11 of their 12 league games there since 2012, and drew the other one. I just wonder how deflated Liam Rosenior's side will be after being pumped in Paris on Wednesday night - Paris St-Germain's fifth goal felt like a real hammer blow.
“This game finished 2-2 earlier in the season when Nick Woltemade put Newcastle 2-0 up before Chelsea fought back in the second half. Newcastle will be hoping Anthony Gordon is back at 100% after his illness that meant he was only a substitute against Barcelona on Tuesday.
“But even if Gordon does start, I am still pretty confident Chelsea will win this one. Prediction: 2-1.”
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