Midfield
Ramires, Fabregas, Willian, Oscar, Hazard.
Cesc Fabregas has been in sizzling form since his return to England, playing the attacking enforcer when needed and playing risk-free football like the second half against Tottenham demanded. Nemanja Matic picked up his fifth suspension of the season and would miss the trip to Tyneside. Ramires is likely to take the Serbian’s place alongside Cesc Fabregas.
Eden Hazard is enjoying his best phase of football and scoring goals for fun including the first goal against the Spurs after their early domination on Wednesday. The Belgian’s performances have catapulted Mourinho’s side to the zenith of the Premier League, and his linkup play with Oscar and Willian is mouthwatering to watch. Oscar’s form may have dipped in recent games, but the Brazilian’s work ethic and technical ability makes him one of Jose’s first names on the team sheet.
Forward
Diego Costa
The Spaniard was suspended for the visit of Tottenham but should be raring to go against Newcastle after both Didier Drogna and Loic Remy scored against Spurs. Mourinho insisted that while Chelsea need Costa, they play with the right mentality and give confidence to the other forwards. But the Portuguese isnt going to complain having his Spanish front man back for a busy period of the season.
