Chelsea vs Newcastle tips and predictions: Blues seeking revenge in Carabao Cup clash
- George Dempsey
- 18 December 2023
Chelsea will meet Newcastle in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, just weeks after they were beaten 4-1 at St James’ Park in the Premier League
Mauricio Pochettino's rebuilding project at Stamford Bridge has been gradual and methodical, but there are indications that it could come together in 2024.
There are still flashes of last season’s frustrating performance resulting in a loss to nil, but the goals are starting to flow at Stamford Bridge.
The Blue's current away form will be a cause for concern but no result more so than the 4-1 loss against Newcastle. Poch’s side crumbled under the pressure, so it’s a good thing they’re at home here.
On the other hand, you have to say Newcastle are having an extraordinary season with the deck stacked against them.
The Magpies are currently sixth in the Premier League table and targetting a second successive trip to Wembley to contest the Carabao Cup, but their away form has been an issue.
Since beating Sheffield United 8-0 in September, Howe’s side are conceding two goals per game and have lost four of five.
Their poor run of form coincides with Chelsea discovering their shooting boots. Poch’s side have rattled in 11 in four at Stamford Bridge and will want to avenge the defeat at St James’ Park.
The combination of recent form coupled with Chelsea wanting revenge has us leaning towards the host, but it’s impossible to ignore the possibility of goals.
Both of these teams look capable of scoring and conceding at present and an early strike could open things up, so both teams to score looks a solid bet.
Team news
Wesley Fofana, Marc Cucurella, Reece James, Robert Sanchez, Ben Chilwell, Romeo Lavia, Trevoh Chalobah, Lesley Ugochukwu and Carney Chukwuemeka are ruled out.
Noni Madueke has just returned to full training and Cristopher Nkunku, who was on the bench at the weekend, may see extended minutes.
Joelinton, Alexander Isak, Kieran Tripper and Fabian Schar have been added to the list of concerns ahead of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup clash.
Sandro Tonali, Nick Pope, Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock, Elliot Anderson, Javier Manquillo and Matt Target are ruled out.
Key stats
- Chelsea are unbeaten in four at Stamford Bridge, scoring 11 goals
- Chelsea have won seven of their last 11 meetings with Newcastle
- Cole Palmer has scored eight and assisted five in all competitions
- Since September 8, Newcastle are conceding two goals per game away from home
- Newcastle have lost four of five away games
