Newcastle United look to preserve their unbeaten home record so far this season with a win against an out-of-form Chelsea at the Sports Direct Arena.
Alan Pardew’s side will once again be without midfielders Cheick Tiote, who is suffering from a knee injury, and Sylvain Marveaux with a groin problem. However, the Magpies see the return of striker Leon Best to the squad. Newcastle picked up a solid point away at Manchester United last weekend, riding their luck along the way, and Pardew will be confident of a win at home against a stuttering Blues side.
Chelsea have already been beaten six times in the league this season and the pressure is cranking up on Andre Villas-Boas. The 34 year old manager will have captain John Terry back after his absence in the midweek Carling Cup loss to Liverpool. The Blues won 3-0 at home to Wolves last weekend and looked comfortable, but they face a whole different task in the North East.
Newcastle’s home form has been impressive so far this season and they will look to pick up three points in memory of former player Gary Speed, who died last weekend. However, Chelsea’s backs are firmly against the wall and the Blues could have enough to get the victory that may kick-start their season.
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