Preview: Chelsea vs. Newcastle – Team news and prediction

Both teams get a welcomed break from the Premier League as they meet tonight in the EFL Cup quarterfinals, aiming for a chance to win a trophy this season. Chelsea has suffered 3 defeats in the last 5 Premier League matches, while Newcastle has 2 losses in the last 4 Premier League matches. Neither team has lived up to expectations in terms of results in the league this season.

Chelsea has advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating Wimbledon, Brighton, and most recently Blackburn, while Newcastle has overcome both Manchester clubs.

Last five meetings between Chelsea vs. Newcastle:
◉ 4-1: Newcastle vs. Chelsea
◉ 1-1: Chelsea vs. Newcastle
◉ 1-0: Newcastle vs. Chelsea 
◉ 1-0: Chelsea vs. Newcastle
◉ 0-3: Newcastle vs. Chelsea 

Team news: 
Both teams have been heavily affected by injuries this season, which has naturally impacted their point accumulation in the Premier League. Chelsea must do without Wesley Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Trevoh Chalobah, Lesley Ugochukwu, Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, and Romeo Lavia, all of whom are sidelined with injuries.

Pochettino can, however, take comfort in the return of Christopher Nkunku and Malo Gusto to the squad. It is expected that Gusto will be ready to start, while Nkunku will be on the bench and his playing time will be managed.

Fabian Schar, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Nick Pope, Jacob Murphy, Matt Targett, Javi Manquillo, Elliot Anderson, Joe Willock, and Harvey Barnes are the players that Eddie Howe has to do without for tonight's match. Additionally, there is significant uncertainty regarding the availability of Kieran Trippier and Alexander Isak, both of whom have been dealing with minor injuries, and it is quite possible that no chances will be taken with them in this game.

Chelsea expected lineup:
Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Badiashile, Maatsen; Caicedo, Fernandez; Sterling, Gallagher, Palmer; Broja.

Newcastle expected lineup: 
Dubravka; Krafth, Lascelles, Botman, Burn; Miley, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Ritchie, Wilson, Almiron.

Prediction: 
Newcastle has not won in their last 6 away matches in all competitions, and considering their injuries, they face a tough challenge at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is also dealing with injuries, but the depth and the opportunity to win a trophy, which could serve as a consolation in an incredibly challenging season, still provide them with extra motivation. 

We believe Chelsea will win tonight's match with odds of 1.80 at Betway.