The Blues’ recent memory of Newcastle United is not so pretty as they tasted their first defeat of the season at The St. James’ Park. This is a whole new affair as Chelsea are formidable at home while Newcastle are manager-less this time. Chelsea would want to put their recent slump in form behind them as they would want to kick start after their humiliating defeat at Tottenham. Here are the key player battles of the match :
Gary Cahill vs. Ayoze Perez
Cahill had a terrible game against Harry Kane at White Hart Lane and a similar styled forward Ayoze could prove a handful especially because Newcastle are expected to play on the counter attack. If Chelsea commit most men forward, there would be occasions where the defence will be open for the gutsy striker to attack. It would be interesting to see how Cahill redeems himself after the New Year’s Day disaster.
Eden Hazard vs. Daryl Janmaat
The Belgian and the Dutchman had a good battle last time out. Janmaat, despite not being able to match Hazard’s pace while facing him last time, still managed to keep him out. This time around, Hazard comes with a burning hunger to win games and would want to tear both fullbacks apart especially the Right Back Janmaat. Newcastle would want their defence to be sharp to avoid falling prey to Hazard’ trickery.
Cesc Fabregas vs. Jack Colback
The Spaniard dictates the game for the Blues in the midfield while Colback does the dirty job of breaking the play down. Both have been in excellent form this season and it is going to be important that Fabregas overcomes the Colback obstacle if Chelsea want all three points today.