Newcastle fought hard to pick up their first point in 5 league games as they secured a draw against West Brom on Tuesday night.
Next up is a visit to Stamford Bridge on Saturday to face defending champions Chelsea, and there is bad news.
Manager Rafa Benitez revealed prior to the midweek’s clash that the trio of Jamaal Lascelles, Christian Atsu, and Paul Dummett, currently recovering from ankle, thigh and hamstring injuries respectively won’t likely be making the squad to face the Blues.
In the Spaniard words while assessing their situations and chances: “Each one is different. Dummett’s training, but still he needs to have the confidence that he can sprint at 100% and all these things, so still a little time.
“Atsu is still recovering, but still a couple of weeks. We’ll see how he’s going on with his recovery.
“Jamaal, I have been talking with. He can run, but still he needs to manage it a little bit when he has to turn.
“How long? Not for this game. Chelsea? Very difficult for all three.”
Clearly, Newcastle have struggled at the back in the absence of their influential captain, while they are also badly missing Atsu’s attacking influence.
There isn’t enough depth within the squad for Benitez to pull any magic against a side like Chelsea, and if his side were handed a point ahead of weekend’s clash, he will gladly grab it with both hands.
Antonio Conte’s side remain title challengers despite Manchester City’s dominance, and it will take a lot of spirited display – particularly at the back – for Newcastle to leave west London with a good result.
The presence of the aforementioned trio might have given them a chance.
Nevertheless, nothing can be ruled out considering Crystal Palace have beaten Chelsea this term.
