By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, December 19 2025 - Chelsea will look to retain their hold on fourth place in the Premier League when they travel to St James’ Park for an early kick-off against Newcastle United, in what promises to be a demanding test of their top-four credentials.
The Blues head into the fixture knowing that every point is crucial as the race for Champions League qualification intensifies. With several rivals close behind, Enzo Maresca’s side cannot afford slip-ups, particularly away from home, where consistency has at times proved elusive.
St James’ Park remains one of the most intimidating venues in English football, especially for early kick-off fixtures, and Chelsea will need to be at their sharpest to come away with a positive result. Newcastle have built a reputation for fast starts on home soil, backed by a vocal crowd that can quickly swing momentum in their favour.
Chelsea’s recent form has been encouraging, with greater control in midfield helping them grind out important results, even though they have some defensive concerns. Key attacking players will be expected to step up again, as Chelsea look to impose themselves and silence the home support early.
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Newcastle, meanwhile, will see the match as an opportunity to disrupt Chelsea’s top-four push and strengthen their own ambitions. Eddie Howe’s side have been competitive at home and will aim to exploit any lapses in concentration, particularly in the opening exchanges.
With both teams having plenty at stake, the early kick-off adds another layer of intrigue. Chelsea will be keen to set the tone for the weekend’s action, while Newcastle will hope to use home advantage to apply pressure from the first whistle.
All signs point to a high-intensity encounter, where fine margins could prove decisive as Chelsea fight to protect their place among the Premier League’s top four while Newcastle look to climb up the table.
