Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United squad heads to West London to face Chelsea in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge. The Magpies, who are dealing with a string of injury challenges, will have a familiar look, yet are missing key players.
Notably absent from Newcastle’s lineup is Callum Wilson, the club’s prolific No. 9, who continues to be sidelined by a persistent back injury. Despite efforts to rehabilitate, Wilson has not reached a level of fitness that would allow him to participate in matchday action. Having appeared in just six games in 2024, his absence is a blow for Newcastle, as he’s been a critical component of their attack. Wilson will not only miss this weekend’s showdown with Chelsea but is also ruled out of next weekend’s clash with Arsenal at St. James’ Park.
However, there’s some positive news for Newcastle with the return of Swedish striker Alexander Isak and promising young midfielder Lewis Miley, who both made the bench in last weekend’s fixture against Brighton. Isak, who has recently recovered from a broken toe, is expected to spearhead Newcastle’s attack, while Miley, who missed the start of the season with a foot injury, adds valuable depth to their midfield options.
With this renewed strength, Newcastle’s midfield lineup looks competitive. The likes of Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock are battling for a starting role, pushing regulars such as Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, and captain Bruno Guimaraes.
In defense, Eddie Howe will likely stick to the back four of Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, and Lewis Hall, supported by goalkeeper Nick Pope. Chelsea fans should note that Hall, on loan from Chelsea, will have an added motivation against his parent club. Defensive reinforcements Lloyd Kelly and Emil Krafth are on standby, ready to step in if required.
The major question for Newcastle lies in their forward line. Anthony Gordon, a standout for the Magpies this season, is expected to start, likely alongside Isak. The final spot in the forward trio, however, remains open. Jacob Murphy, who played against Brighton, is a potential starter, yet Harvey Barnes might be in contention, allowing Gordon to switch to the right wing. Alternatively, Miguel Almiron, who has had limited playing time, could also be considered.
Chelsea will need to be prepared for a Newcastle squad that, although weakened by injuries, still holds the depth and resilience to make this an intense match. Stamford Bridge has seen Chelsea make strides in recent games, but the Blues will need to bring their A-game to counter Newcastle’s gritty and determined lineup.
Newcastle United squad vs Chelsea:
Goalkeepers: Pope, Vlachodimos, Ruddy
Defenders: Livramento, Krafth, Schar, Burn, Kelly, Hall
Midfielders: Tonali, Longstaff, Guimaraes, Willock, Miley, Joelinton, J Murphy
Forwards: A Murphy, Barnes, Gordon, Osula, Isak