Chelsea suffer injuries as they prepare for Newcastle game
Chelsea face a tough task against an unpredictable Newcastle side when they travel to St James’ Park for their final game before Christmas. The Blues will be hoping to end a busy festive period on a high note but their squad remains somewhat depleted due to a series of injury issues.
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Injuries plague Chelsea’s preparations
Chelsea will again be without Liam Delap and Estevo Willian against Newcastle. Both players are recovering from injury and are unlikely to feature this weekend, although there is optimism they can return in time for Chelsea’s next game against Aston Villa on December 27. Delap, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury since the 0-0 draw against Bournemouth, continues to improve but was unable to return in time for the St James’ Park game. Estevo, on the other hand, is nursing a “minor muscle problem” that ruled him out of Chelsea’s 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City and will rule him out again.
Cole Palmer gets closer to full fitness
Cole Palmer is on the verge of a full recovery after missing an extended period due to a groin injury. The striker has been working hard to regain some clarity in his game and will soon be able to play the full 90 minutes, which will give head coach Enzo Maresca a welcome boost.
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Marc Cucurella returns
Marc Cucurella will also return to the starting lineup after being suspended in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. The versatile defender is crucial to Chelsea’s shape, providing flexibility to the defense and a potential outlet down the Blues’ left wing. With Cucurella back, Chelsea will have more options in a game that requires a solid defensive performance, especially against the attacking threat posed by Newcastle at home.
Predicted starting line-up for Chelsea vs Newcastle
In terms of lineup, Chelsea is expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Roberto Sanchez as goalkeeper. The back four could include Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Trevor Chalobah and Mark Cucurella. In the midfield, Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez will serve as the main midfielders, while Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer and Alejandro Ganaccio will provide offensive support for Joao Pedro.
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Injuries to be monitored
Chelsea will still be without the long-term absences Dario Esugo, Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwell. These players are unlikely to feature in the near future, further testing Chelsea’s squad depth.
Competition information
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Time and date: Saturday 20 December 2025 12:30 noon GMT
