“It will be interesting” – Paul Merson gives prediction for Chelsea’s huge game against Newcastle | OneFootball

Chelsea face a tough game against Newcastle this weekend and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has given his prediction.

The Blues travel to St James’ Park on Saturday lunchtime, looking for a first win at the famous ground since 2021, and a third win in a row in all competitions.

Enzo Maresca’s men head into the game in fourth six points ahead of Newcastle in 12th, and they will be looking to close the gap on Aston Villa and Manchester City ahead of them.

Paul Merson makes Newcastle vs Chelsea prediction

The build-up to the game has been dominated by speculation over Maresca’s future, with the Italian linked to the Manchester City job.

Maresca stated he would be still be manager next season as he commented on the speculation for the first time ahead of the Newcastle game.

Chelsea have now won back to back games after beating Cardiff. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

Maresca was able to rest a number of players in midweek against Cardiff so the team should be ready and raring to go.

Newcastle have got injuries problems of their own, especially defensively, and this could be the best chance of getting a result in a number of years.

The task will still be tough, and the Blues will have to be at their best, and Merson has now had his say on how he sees the game going.

“Newcastle can’t get going at home for some reason” he told Sportskeeda.

“Now they play back-to-back games against Chelsea and Manchester United at home. If Newcastle win these two games, they have a strong chance of finishing in the top four.”

Cole Palmer return massive for Enzo Maresca

Chelsea will once again be able to call on Cole Palmer, a factor Merson thinks will be huge for Chelsea at St James’ Park.

“Cole Palmer returning to the Chelsea line-up is a massive boost to Enzo Maresca’s team.

“We saw his impact against Everton. It wasn’t the best of performances from Chelsea, but he still grabbed a really good goal.

More Stories / Latest News

“It will be interesting” – Paul Merson gives prediction for Chelsea’s huge game against Newcastle

20th Dec 2025, 07:00am

“Clubs monitoring” – Ben Jacobs provides major update on future of 673 minute Chelsea ace

20th Dec 2025, 06:30am

Maresca keeps up charm offensive to keep fans onside after tense week

19th Dec 2025, 06:31pm

“We must not forget that Chelsea were playing competitive football till July last season. They will be forced to manage the minutes of Palmer and others with so many games coming up in the next few weeks.

“It will be interesting to see how many matches Palmer starts in the festive period.

“I didn’t think Newcastle were great in their win over Fulham in the cup. Chelsea have been decent away from home as well.

“I think this will be a draw and that’s a good result for Chelsea.

“Prediction: Newcastle United 1-1 Chelsea.”