The race for Champions League places looks set to go right to the wire in the Premier League but this clash between Newcastle and Chelsea could be pivotal in deciding who gets a seat at Europe's top table.
Chelsea have been slumming it in the UEFA Conference League this term but owner Todd Boehly is craving a return to the big time in Europe after spending over a billion on players since his takeover.
Enzo Maresca has them on track at the moment, with the Blues sitting fifth heading into the latest round of fixture after a rousing 3-1 win over champions Liverpool that bust my coupon.
Newcastle also want to get back into the Champions League after missing out this term following last season's adventure. Eddie Howe has them in a great position too, with the Magpies sitting above Chelsea on goal difference heading into this game.
They could only draw 1-1 at Brighton last time out, with Alexander Isak brining up a bet for Slips Tips, but will now be looking for the Toon Army to roar them to a massive win.
There's little margin for error with both teams having tricky fixtures in the run-in but whoever comes out on top in this game will take a big stride towards their goal.
How the bookies view it: Toon Army to tip the scales
This one could go either way but BoyleSports make Newcastle their 11/10 favourites with home advantage. Chelsea are 11/5 shots and the draw pays 13/5.
Recent head to head: Blues have the edge
This fixutre has been keenly contested in recent years but Chelsea have held the upper hand, winning seven of the last 13 meetings and losing four. Chelsea won 2-0 at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League earlier this season but Newcastle got their revenge with a 2-1 St James' Park win en route to lifting the EFL Cup.
Players to watch: Isak on fire
It's hard to look past red-hot Isak for a Newcastle goal after he took his tally to 32 for the season with that penalty leveller at Brighton. The Swede is just evens at BoyleSports for another goal but he's 5/1 at Bet365 for an assist.
A weight has been lifted off Cole Palmer's shoulders after his penalty against Liverpool ended an 18-game goal drought. He's 2/1 to grab another here at BoyleSports while Bet365 price him at a tempting 7/2 for an assist.
Probable line-ups
Newcastle are sweating on stopper Fabian Schar after he limped off against Brighton while Joelinton, Lewis Hall and Jamaal Lascelles look set to miss the rest of the season.
Chelsea boss Maresca had the luxury of fielding a weakened team for the second leg of their Conference League semi with Djurgarden but should be back to his strongest available line-up. Wesley Fofana, Christopher Nkunku and Malo Gusto are the only first-team stars set to miss out with injury.
Newcastle United: Pope, Livramento, Botman, Burn, Trippier, Guimaraes, Tonali, Miley, Gordon, Barnes, Isak.
Chelsea: Sanchez, James, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella, Caicedo, Lavia, Fernandez, Palmer, Neto, Jackson.
Anything else catch the eye?
With so much at stake, this could be a cagey game so I'm going to bet against a thriller. Under 2.5 goals looks worth a punt at 13/10 with BoyleSports while the half-time draw also appeals at 5/4.
The midfield battle will be key to deciding who comes out on top and backing a few cards could pay off. Bruno Guimaraes and Moises Caicedo will be in the thick of the fight, with the Newcastle man 9/5 to go in the book and the Blues star 13/8 in the same market.
This English Premier League match between Newcastle United and Chelsea will be played on and kick off at 12:00. Check below for our tipsters best Newcastle United vs Chelsea prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
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