Chelsea’s confidence will be high after a run of four consecutive victories in all competitions. The ‘Blues’ scored a combined total of 15 goals in those wins, but a return of only one clean sheet in all competitions remains a burning issue for Frank Lampard’s men.
Generally speaking, goals appear likely when Chelsea is involved, considering that their Premier League (PL) contests have averaged 4.00 goals per-match. Six out of their eight league matches played so far have featured over 2.5 goals, and five of those yielded over 3.5 goals.
Newcastle is on their own high after defeating Manchester United 1-0, but they have still won just six of their last 31 PL away matches (W6, D10, L15). Scoring early is their key to success on the road, as Newcastle have been leading at half-time in six of their last eight PL away victories.
Also worthy of consideration is the fact that Newcastle has only scored more than one goal in three of their previous 15 PL matches. As ever, they will aim to be tight at the back, considering that eight of their last 11 PL wins have been accompanied by a clean sheet.
Players to watch: Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham has scored his eight PL goals this season across four games, being the first scorer in three.
Newcastle center-back Fabian Schär has had 11 shots this season, which is the second-most in the squad and is one of five players that stands as joint-top scorer with one goal.
Stat attack: Chelsea has won five of the last six H2Hs, winning each of the last seven home meetings.
The ‘Blues’ have scored over 1.5 goals in nine of their last 12 PL home matches.
Newcastle average 9.5 shots per league game; the joint-lowest in the PL.
Only Watford have scored fewer than Newcastle’s five PL goals this season.
Will not play
Christensen A.
(Thigh Injury)
Hayden I.
(Red Card)
Kante N.
(Groin Injury)
Lejeune F.
(Knee Injury)
Loftus-Cheek R.
(Achilles Tendon Injury)
Rudiger A.
(Groin Injury)
van Ginkel M.
(Knee Injury)
Questionable
Emerson
(Thigh Injury)
Ritchie M.
(Ankle Injury)
Match Information
Referee: Marriner A. (Eng),
Venue: Stamford Bridge (London)
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