Chelsea’s Injury Woes as They Prepare for Newcastle Clash
As Chelsea head to St James’ Park for their final match before Christmas, they face a daunting task against an unpredictable Newcastle side. The Blues will be looking to end a busy festive period on a high note, but their squad remains somewhat depleted due to a series of injury concerns.
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Injuries Plaguing Chelsea’s Preparations
Chelsea will once again be without Liam Delap and Estevao Willian for the clash with Newcastle. Both players are recovering from injuries and are unlikely to feature this weekend, though there is optimism that they could return in time for Chelsea’s next match against Aston Villa on December 27. Delap, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury since the goalless draw at Bournemouth, continues to make progress but won’t be fit in time for St James’ Park. Estevao, on the other hand, is nursing a “small muscular problem,” which kept him out of Chelsea’s 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City and will keep him on the sidelines once again.
Cole Palmer Nearing Full Fitness
After a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a groin injury, Cole Palmer is closing in on full fitness. The forward has been working hard to regain match sharpness and could soon be ready to play a full 90 minutes, which would provide a welcome boost for manager Enzo Maresca.
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Marc Cucurella Returns to the Fold
Marc Cucurella is also set to return to the starting XI after serving a suspension during the Carabao Cup quarter-final. The versatile defender will be crucial to Chelsea’s setup, offering flexibility in defence as well as a potential outlet for the Blues down the left flank. With Cucurella back in the fold, Chelsea will have more options at their disposal for a match that will demand a solid defensive performance, especially against the attacking threat Newcastle poses at home.
Chelsea’s Predicted XI for Newcastle Clash
In terms of lineup, Chelsea are expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Robert Sanchez in goal. The back four will likely consist of Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Marc Cucurella. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández will anchor the midfield, while Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Alejandro Garnacho will offer support to Joao Pedro in attack.
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Injuries to Monitor
Chelsea will still be missing long-term absentees Dario Essugo, Romeo Lavia, and Levi Colwill. These players are unlikely to feature in the near future, further testing Chelsea’s squad depth.
Match Information
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Time and Date: 12:30pm GMT, Saturday, December 20, 2025
Published Date : 2025-12-20 07:50:00
Source : sports.yahoo.com
