Predicted Chelsea team to face Newcastle United: Squad issues could force Tuchel into unorthodox change ***SAT***
With squad issues prevalent, the predicted Chelsea team to face Newcastle could see Thomas Tuchel forced into an unorthodox change.
Chelsea have been on a good run of late, especially in the Premier League. Indeed, they have won each of their last three games in the competition.
The Blues beat Norwich City 3-1 last game and they put four past Burnley the game before. Prior to that, they defeated Crystal Palace 1-0.
Tuchel’s side will want to maintain their position of third in the league, but squad issues could mean a change to his selections is required. The manager mentioned a pair of players who are likely to be unavailable ahead of the match.
“Christian [Pulisic] did not feel well in the morning. He had two bad nights and felt sick. Had a change of temperature, felt hot and then cold. So we decided to leave him at home to rest. Last-minute change,” said Tuchel.
“Azpi at half time didn’t feel well. Stomach problems, looked pale. So we decided to change.”
With Reece James having suffered an injury setback and Cesar Azpilicueta ill, someone may have to play out of position at right wing-back.
Last time out – Norwich City 1-3 Chelsea
Edouard Mendy started in goal, as is usual in the league. The three centre-backs ahead of him were Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva and Trevoh Chalobah. The latter had an up-and-down night, as he scored, but gave away a penalty and got booked.
The wing-back positions were filled by Azpilicueta and Saul Niguez.
Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho occupied the midfield spots.
The front three consisted of Mason Mount, Kai Havertz – both of whom scored – and Timo Werner.
Predicted Chelsea team against Newcastle
Mendy is likely to remain in net, with Silva and Christensen to be partnered by the returning Antonio Rudiger. Tuchel suggested his fellow German was benched against Norwich due to rotation.
With the problems at right wing-back, Callum Hudson-Odoi may have to deputise there, as he has a couple of times this season. Marcos Alonso could return at left wing-back if Saul is dropped to the bench.
The midfield could see N’Golo Kante return to partner Jorginho.
Mason Mount and Kai Havertz could retain their places after goalscoring performances, as could Werner.
Predicted Chelsea XI: Mendy; Christensen, Silva, Rudiger; Hudson-Odoi, Kante, Jorginho, Alonso; Mount, Havertz, Werner
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