Newcastle vs Chelsea

Both Newcastle and Chelsea can still qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season and the pair meet at St. James’ Park on Sunday lunchtime. The game has been moved due to the Blues’ involvement in the Europa League on Thursday night and although the quick turnaround is far from ideal for the West Londoners, Enzo Maresca named an XI consisting of predominantly fringe players.

These two sides are locked on 63 points and are separated by goals scored and this could be a fascinating match-up between the two teams. With the extra Champions League place up for grabs, coupled with the threat of either Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest nipping in to grab the final spot, neither team can afford to take their foot off the gas here.

The Magpies’ home record is fantastic with Eddie Howe’s men having been defeated just four times at this venue. They’re also unbeaten here against fellow top-six sides and have already seen off Arsenal, Forest and Villa in Tyneside.

Chelsea are unbeaten in their last six Premier League matches, however, only two of those games were away from Stamford Bridge. The Blues’ away record against fellow top-six dwellers is underwhelming, losing in each of their four trips. They also have a poor record at this stadium, losing three of their last four.

Newcastle have netted 18 goals across their last five home matches and although Chelsea will be stiffer opposition, the hosts should have too much firepower for the visitors, who have kept just two clean sheets on the road since September 21st.