Chelsea F.C. Lineup vs Newcastle CONFIRMED: Cole Palmer IN, Reece James OUT

London giants Chelsea have reached St. James' Park for the showdown against Newcastle United. Eddie Howe's side is desperate for a win to boost their Premier League standing, having managed just six victories in their last 16 games. Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca's men are riding high after their Carabao Cup triumph over Cardiff City, following their fourth position in their Premier League standings.

Chelsea have been hit by injuries, with one of their best defenders, Levi Colwill, ruled out for the match against the Magpies due to a knee problem. Addressing Chelsea's possible XI against the mid-table Magpies at the pre-match press conference, Enzo Maresca confirmed Cole Palmer's inclusion:

Chelsea F.C. Lineup vs Newcastle

With home advantage for the hosts, Maresca could start João Pedro over Gusto, keeping the latter as a super sub. The Spanish left back Marc Cucurella has served a suspension during the Carabao Cup against Cardiff City, but now he will be back in the Chelsea starting XI. Maresa's formation for this clash would be 4-2-3-1, giving Cole Palmer a few minutes on the field to manage his gametime.

GK: Sanchez;

Defenders: Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella;

Midfielders: Caicedo, James; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho;

Forward: Joao Pedro

Injured: Estevao, Delap, Essugo, Lavia, Colwill