Eddie Howe keeping two Newcastle United 'secrets' ahead of Premier League clash vs Chelsea

Fourth-place Newcastle host fifth-place Chelsea at St James’ Park in a massive game in the race for Champions League qualification. Both teams are level on points and on goal difference in the league table, with only goals scored separating the two sides.

The Magpies drew 1-1 at Brighton & Hove Albion last Sunday while Chelsea beat Premier League champions Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca’s side were in action against Swedish side Djurgardens on Thursday night but made 10 changes as they progressed into the final of the Europa Conference League.

Eddie Howe predicts Chelsea starting XI vs Newcastle United

United boss Eddie Howe expects the Blues to revert back to the starting XI that got the better of Liverpool.

“I think the game and the tie was pretty much dead,” Howe said. “They had a comfortable lead [from the first leg]. We expect them to, without going into too much detail, revert to near their last Premier League side, which is an impressive game against Liverpool.

“They've performed very well of late. They've got a lot of confidence attacking players back in form. So, yes, it should be a good game.

“As I said, the tie last night was almost done so I think they have a really deep squad. A lot of players, a lot of quality players. But I think they found a consistency in their Premier League selection recently. But they haven't changed too much. I think they've been successful with that philosophy. So I don't imagine too many changes.”

Newcastle United assessing ‘a couple of players’

Howe has revealed Newcastle are assessing “a couple of players” ahead of the game.

He said: “We've got a couple of players we're looking at and assessing, and we'll see how they are from the weekend. Yeah, but apart from that, we're okay. We've trained well this week. I've been pleased with the group, very focused on our next match.”

When asked if he could reveal those players, Howe replied: “Let's keep it under wraps and see if they make it.”

Fabian Schar and Kieran Trippier were forced off at Brighton last weekend but according to Howe “are doing pretty good”.

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