“I’m backing” – Paul Merson makes Chelsea vs Newcastle prediction | OneFootball

Chelsea take on Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening and Paul Merson has given his prediction for the match.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE

The Blues will be looking for an immediate response having lost 5-2 to PSG in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

It’s a crucial game in the race for Champions League football with Chelsea currently sat fifth level on points with Liverpool in sixth, and three behind Manchester United and Aston Villa in third and fourth respectively.

Paul Merson gives Chelsea vs Newcastle prediction

Chelsea’s record at home in the league this season is poor, and the Blues have won just six of their 14 games at Stamford Bridge.

Their last two home games finished in draws against Leeds and Burnley, and Liam Rosenior desperately needs a positive result.

It’s unclear whether Estevao and Jamie Gittens will return to the match day squad after injury, but other than long term absentee Levi Colwill, Rosenior should have a fully fit squad to pick from.

Newcastle don’t have a good record at Stamford Bridge, whilst the game at St James’ Park finished 2-2 earlier in the season, and Merson has now given his prediction.

“Chelsea produced a brilliant result against Aston Villa,” he told Sportskeeda.

“But their display in the Champions League round of 16 first leg against PSG now means they are unlikely to go through to the next stage!

“I think it comes down to experience. Chelsea simply capitulated after the error from Filip Jorgensen. If they had a few more senior pros in that line-up, I’m sure they would have assessed the situation better and maybe managed the game a lot better to not concede the fourth and fifth goals.

“The only way I see Chelsea returning to the Champions League next season is if they can finish in the top five.

“So this is a must-win game at home against Newcastle.”

Newcastle to prioritise Barcelona game?

Newcastle face Barcelona next week in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie, with the two teams level at 1-1, and Merson thinks Howe will prioritise that game over Chelsea.

“I know Barcelona are a different beast at home,” he added.

More Stories / Latest News

“I’m backing” – Paul Merson makes Chelsea vs Newcastle prediction

13th Mar 2026, 06:45am

“Tactically, this guy has got it” – Pundit insists Liam Rosenior is “cooking up a storm” at Chelsea

13th Mar 2026, 06:30am

Chelsea striker surprisingly linked with a move to Newcastle United this summer

13th Mar 2026, 05:57am

“But they play a high line and with Anthony Gordon expected to start that game, Newcastle will fancy their chances.

“I’m backing Chelsea to win here because I expect Howe to prioritise the next game against Barcelona.

“Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Newcastle United.”

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here: