‘Huge game’: Paul Merson now predicts what the score will be between Newcastle and Chelsea

Paul Merson has predicted the score between Newcastle United and Chelsea.

The Premier League returns this weekend after what has felt like the longest fortnight ever and St James' Park will host Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino brings his injury-ravaged side to face an even more injury-ravaged Newcastle.

Chelsea certainly have their share of injury problems, but Newcastle are still top of that table. And to make matters worse, Newcastle can't use fullback Lewis Hall even as a substitute as Chelsea are still his parent club.

Newcastle could have some good news on the injury front

Luckily Miguel Almiron and Alexander Isak are tipped to be fit enough to feature in some capacity, and Sean Longstaff is still a possibility.

Robbie Jay Barratt via Getty Images

Paul Merson has rightly said that this game will be decided on who can field the fittest team when making his prediction for Sportskeeda.

“This is going to be another huge game. It’s one of those games where the result will be dictated by the availability of players. If Chelsea can get through the first 30 minutes without getting beaten, this could be an extremely interesting encounter.

“Chelsea are starting to adapt to Mauricio Pochettino’s style. They are able to give any side a run for their money at this point. I think Chelsea have to stick with Nicolas Jackson, Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer in attack. Sterling and Palmer have been in great form and they will be key here once again.

'Newcastle at home are always up for any challenge' - Paul Merson

“Chelsea’s team, at the moment, is starting to pick itself and it’s a good thing. Earlier, we used to sit around wondering how they were going to line up. But that’s changed now.

“Despite all that, Newcastle at home are always up for any challenge and I see this game ending in a draw.

“Predicted scoreline: Newcastle United 1-1 Chelsea”

To be honest, we'd take a draw. On any normal day we should beat Chelsea, but with our squad in the state it's in, this one might just be a bit out of our reach.

The point will come due to the home advantage, but we're expecting a cagey game.