Eddie Howe must decide whether to tweak his Newcastle United starting XI for a season-defining clash with Chelsea.
Enzo Maresca’s side are on their way to St James’ Park, as Newcastle United and Chelsea go head-to-head. It will be a decisive game in the race for Champions League qualification, with the two sides level on points and goal difference.
Newcastle know it is their biggest game of the season other than the Carabao Cup final. If the Magpies win on Sunday, they will be on the brink of returning to Europe’s elite competition.
It is a massive fixture, and this is Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United XI to face Chelsea on Sunday.
Fabian Schar decision made
Fabian Schar has been an injury doubt ahead of facing Chelsea.
The £3million defender was substituted during stoppage time of Newcastle’s draw with Brighton. After the game, Eddie Howe was unsure if it was a muscle problem or just cramp.
However, it would appear that it was the latter. Schar has trained ahead of the Chelsea game, so should be fit to start at St James’ Park.
If not, Sven Botman could come in for his first start since January. However, it looks likely that Fabian Schar will be good to go.
Newcastle United show faith in £25m player
Newcastle fans criticised Joe Willock after the 1-1 draw at the Amex Stadium.
The 25-year-old is under the microscope since replacing Joelinton in the starting XI, and a lot of supporters are far from convinced with his performances.
However, Eddie Howe will likely stick with Willock on Sunday.
While his dive was extremely disappointing, some of the criticism aimed at Willock has been harsh. He will hope to silence the critics against Chelsea, as he prepares to start in midfield again next to Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
Anthony Gordon role remains unchanged vs Chelsea
Anthony Gordon was impressive against Brighton.
He had an impact off the bench down on the south coast, immediately winning a penalty by driving at Tariq Lamptey. Unfortunately for Newcastle and Anthony Gordon, VAR overturned the decision as the foul was outside the box.
But it was a reminder of Gordon’s ability, and he is pushing to be in the starting XI on Sunday.
However, the more likely outcome is that Howe retains faith in Jacob Murphy and Harvey Barnes out wide.
Once again, Gordon will have to make his impact as a substitute.
Predicted XI vs Chelsea: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Bruno, Tonali, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Barnes.
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