:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57800357/881917024.jpg.0.jpg)
The games are coming thick and fast; hardly time to blink and take a breath or two. And it’s an early kick-off on Saturday, even, as Newcastle United and The Interim One roll into town. Hope you’ll be awake by the 12:30 kick-off.
These early games are often a bit more lethargic on the pitch as well, and Chelsea will have to avoid that despite the visitors’ poor form. In fact, outside of Swansea, Newcastle are perhaps the least in-form team in the league, having lost four of five and recorded just one win in nine and that against bottom of the table Crystal Palace. Newcastle did draw 2-2 on Tuesday away to West Brom.
For Chelsea, there could be some good news regarding squad fitness, as Victor Moses made his return yesterday in a 15-minute substitute appearance. He has plenty of rusk to shake off, but that’s understandable after almost two months out. Michy Batshuayi and Kenedy could be ready for selection as well after both had returned to training earlier this week. David Luiz and Charly Musonda look likely to remain out.
There will be another quick turnaround after this one, with Atlético Madrid coming to the Bridge on Tuesday to finish out the group stages of the Champions League. Chelsea have already qualified for the knockout rounds, but first place is still on the line.