Chelsea's trip to face Newcastle United in the Premier League this Saturday is set to be heavily influenced by a significant injury crisis affecting both camps. The two clubs are missing a combined total of twelve players for the fixture at St. James' Park, with one further name considered a major doubt.
Newcastle's Defensive Headaches Mount
Eddie Howe's Newcastle squad has been decimated by injuries, particularly in defence. The Magpies will be without full-back Tino Livramento, who suffered a knee injury against Fulham. While not deemed serious, a previous issue in the same area means he is unlikely to feature before 2026.
They are also missing Dan Burn for around 4-6 weeks with a rib and lung problem, while defensive stalwarts Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth are targeting returns around the new year. Centre-back Sven Botman remains out with a back issue and is not yet ready, and Jamaal Lascelles continues his recovery from an ankle injury.
In further blows, goalkeeper Nick Pope remains absent. The only potential piece of good news is that Lewis Hall is a doubt; he missed the midweek cup game with hamstring fatigue but could be available for selection against his former club.
Chelsea's Absences for Pivotal Away Game
Enzo Maresca's Chelsea, seeking a third consecutive win, also have a lengthy list of unavailable players. Key midfielder Romeo Lavia is sidelined with a hamstring issue until early January, while defender Levi Colwill is out for the season after undergoing ACL surgery in August.
The Blues will also be without young talents Estevao Willian and Liam Delap, though both are expected back for the game against Aston Villa on 27 December. Dario Essugo is also likely to return in January after needing to slow down his recovery.
In a separate issue, winger Mykhailo Mudryk is suspended and not available for selection due to an ongoing anti-doping case.
Match Context and Implications
This fixture sees two sides separated by just six points in the Premier League table. Chelsea head north following league and Carabao Cup victories, while Newcastle's morale is mixed after a stoppage-time cup win over Fulham preceded a heavy derby defeat to Sunderland.
The sheer volume of absentees, particularly in Newcastle's rearguard, will force both managers into significant tactical reshuffles. The outcome of this match could heavily depend on which squad best copes with its depleted resources, making team selection and in-game management more critical than ever.
