Chelsea’s Cole Palmer has issued a powerful message to his teammates ahead of Sunday’s crunch showdown with Newcastle, warning that the Blues must show courage at St James’ Park or risk being “eaten alive” by a hostile Geordie atmosphere.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, who celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, spoke passionately about the magnitude of the upcoming game, one that many within the club are already labelling as Chelsea’s biggest of the season.

“Newcastle is a big game,” Palmer said, fully aware of what’s at stake. “We know what the stadium is like and we know they are in a Champions League spot as well. We know it will be a tough game but we’re going there to win. Hopefully we can do that.”

The message is clear – this isn’t just any Premier League fixture. With both Chelsea and Newcastle chasing a top-five finish, the clash could define the trajectory of the season for either side. And Palmer knows the importance of mentality on such occasions.

“We need to go there and be brave,” he stressed. “If you go there and you’re not brave, or you’re scared, they can eat you alive. We need to be on it.”

It’s a rallying cry that echoes the spirit Chelsea fans demand from their team – fearless, committed, and ready to battle in the most intense of arenas.

Despite the pressure of the looming clash, Palmer still managed to enjoy a moment of celebration earlier this week – albeit in his own low-key way.

“On my birthday I went training, went to the astro with my mates for a kickabout, and then went home and watched the Champions League,” he revealed. “It was good.”

Palmer’s grounded nature off the pitch contrasts sharply with his fire and intensity on it – a balance that has made him one of Chelsea’s most important players this season.

As the Blues prepare to head to the North East, fans will be hoping Palmer’s fearless mindset spreads throughout the squad. St James’ Park is a tough place to visit, but Chelsea, led by Palmer’s bravery, must rise to the challenge.

Because as he rightly said – if you’re not brave, they’ll eat you alive.