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Newcastle United face Chelsea for a third time this season when they make the trip to Stamford Bridge on Monday night. Eddie Howe’s side will travel to the capital on the back of a comfortable 3-0 win against Wolves knowing a win would give them breathing space above the Blues in the race for European qualification.
And Howe has been boosted by the return of some key players to full fitness - namely Joe Willock and Alexander Isak who both started and impressed during Saturday’s win at St James’ Park. Isak got himself on the scoresheet whilst Willock played a key role in their second goal.
Unlike the reverse fixture which saw Howe forced to name three goalkeepers and four academy players on the bench, it’s likely that Newcastle will have a reasonably strong squad for Monday’s game - barring their long-term absentees. They will be without Lewis Hall, however, who is ineligible to face his parent club whilst on loan at the Magpies.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have a fair few injury concerns of their own as the pressure begins to build on Mauricio Pochettino. Here, we take at all the latest injury news from both camps ahead of Newcastle United’s clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge:
13. Elliot Anderson - doubt
Anderson has featured as a very late substitute in both of Newcastle’s last two outings. The club will be keen to ensure he isn’t rushed back into action too quickly and may have to be content for a place on the bench again on Monday night. | Getty Images
14. Nick Pope - out
Pope dislocated his shoulder during the win over Manchester United in December. There is hope that he could be back in action later this month, however. | Getty Images
15. Matt Targett - doubt
Targett was substituted very early on against Manchester United after suffering a hamstring injury in November. He is reportedly back in training and could be edging closer to a return to action. | Getty Images
16. Sandro Tonali - out
Tonali was handed a 10-month ban from football meaning he won’t be available for selection until the beginning of next season. | Getty Images