'Very good': Enzo Maresca is not underestimating Newcastle United despite uninspiring start to season

Eddie Howe's Newcastle United have had an odd start to the season after picking up points when playing absolutely awful and dropping points when playing well.

There's a balance to be found. The big issue at the moment is that the forwards have no idea how to put the ball in the net and if Newcastle can play like they did against Manchester City and indeed Brighton at the weekend but also find the finishing touch, then there'll be no stopping them.

Ideally that's what Eddie Howe and the lads will have been working on this week ahead of tomorrow's trip to Stamford Bridge.

However, despite Newcastle's shaky form, Chelsea boss, Enzo Maresca isn't expecting an easy ride on Sunday.

Enzo Maresca says Newcastle are a 'physically strong' side

Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Maresca reserved some praise for Newcastle and the way they play.

"It’s very clear they are physically strong, very good.

“They have been a bit unlucky, especially against Brighton. Overall, they deserve more points. The way they work for many years together, it’s clear.”

Sunday is the first of back-to-back games against Chelsea

Alexander Isak has been working on his fitness as he's not been 100% for a while and Anthony Gordon is free of the burden of negotiating his new contract, so hopefully those two things can combine to start providing a bit of confidence and more importantly, goals.

Newcastle will host Chelsea at St James' Park on Wednesday night in an immediate replay with a place in the next round of the Carabao Cup on the line midweek.

How we fair tomorrow could have a huge bearing on that game, especially on the team that Enzo Maresca will put out on Wednesday. If they struggle on Sunday, he'll likely be less inclined to put out a 'weaker' side. The mind games have begun.