Both Chelsea and Newcastle return from midweek victories in the EFL cup to fight for three points in the Premier League.
Chelsea lost 2-0 the last time they faced Newcastle and Maresca will be hoping for a win to extend their winning streak to three games.
Newcastle suffered a painful 1-0 away defeat to arch rivals Sunderland last weekend and they have now conceded at least one goal in each of their last nine Premier League matches.
Both teams need a win to keep their spirits high during this tough festive period.
Team News
Newcastle’s Tino Livramento sustained a knee injury in midweek will now join Dan Burn (rib), Nick Pope (groin), Kieran Trippier (hamstring), Sven Botman (back), Will Osula (ankle) and Emil Krafth (knee) in the treatment room. Wissa is also a doubt for this game.
As for Chelsea, Brazilian starlet Estevao Willian will miss out due to a muscle injury, joining Liam Delap (shoulder), Levi Colwill (knee), Romeo Lavia (thigh) and Dario Essugo (thigh) on the sidelines.
Caicedo will make his return to Chelsea’s Premier League XI after a yellow card suspension and Cole Palmer is expected to return to the starting XI as well.
Chelsea vs Newcastle Predicted XI
Newcastle United Predicted XI
Ramsdale; Miley, Schar, Thiaw, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon
Chelsea Predicted XI
Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro
