The Magpies faced Enzo Maresca’s side for the second time in four days, and Howe has opted for five changes from the 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Lloyd Kelly, Emil Krafth, Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock and Anthony Gordon replaced Tino Livramento, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes, Miguel Almiron, Harvey Barnes. The visitors, meanwhile, made 11 changes.
Newcastle pressed Chelsea high in the opening stages and that’s exactly how they opener came about when Joelinton and Sandro Tonali won the ball, eventually leading to Alexander Isak slotting home in the 23rd minute. Three minutes later, it was 2-0 when a quick free-kick from Lewis Hall found Isak, whose deflected cross was flicked goalwards by Willock with the final touch coming of Axel Disasi.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’ Park - and here are his Newcastle United player ratings:
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2. Nick Pope - 6
Flapped a number of flashes but was consistent with his shot stopping to earn his third clean sheet of the campaign. | Getty Images
3. Emil Krafth - 7
Was beaten a couple times down the right but showed good recovery pace. Picked up a lot of second balls. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Fabian Schar - 7
Made a less than convincing start to the game after being booked before presenting a chance to Chrisopher Nkunku. Grew into the game. Calm on the ball. | Getty Images