Chelsea hit with further suspension for winger ahead of Newcastle United clash - Another boost for Eddie Howe's side
Newcastle United face Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday at Stamford Bridge. Kick-off is at 5:30pm live on Sky Sports.
It's a huge game for both sides for different reasons. Newcastle want to continue their recovery in the Premier League off the back of an impressive draw with Barcelona.
Chelsea also want to firm up their chances of securing European football, but after taking a 5-2 drubbing at the hands of PSG this week, they'll be looking at this game to restore some confidence.
Liam Rosenior has been handed a bit of bad news in the build-up to this one, though, which could give Eddie Howe a little bit of a boost.
Pedro Neto will miss the game against Newcastle United after picking up another ban
Chelsea aren't exactly short of attacking options, but with Brazilian wonderkid Estevao already confirmed to miss this game with a hamstring injury, Rosenior will not be best pleased to have the option of playing Pedro Neto taken away from him.
The Portuguese winger has been slapped with another one-game suspension and a fine after already serving a one-game ban following his sending off against Arsenal.
Pedro Neto received two yellow cards in the game against the Gunners and served his suspension in the game against Aston Villa, but the FA have now added an extra game to his suspension for an 'improper reaction' to his sending off. The winger failed to leave the pitch in a timely manner, instead choosing to argue with the referee.
Does it matter who starts for Chelsea when they've got to beat Lewis Hall anyway?
Neto was also given a £70,000 fine after admitting the charge and will now miss Saturday's game against Newcastle.
That's two dangerous wingers out of contention for Chelsea on Saturday, which will give Newcastle a bit of confidence. Although, as we've said, they're not exactly short of players.
Not that it matters, though, we've got Lewis Hall, and he's like Gandalf. You shall not pass!
