Chelsea vs Newcastle United: Three key players to look out for

The Hard Tackle lists three players who could have a say when Newcastle United visits Chelsea on the final day of the season.

Newcastle United accelerated their plans to become a super club by getting Champions League qualifications in Eddie Howe’s first full season. They did so without showing their true financial muscle, as some believed they would get right into splashing mode once the takeover was concluded.

Yet, the Magpies have been cautious and resorted to making smart decisions in the market. Speaking of astute planning, Chelsea did the exact opposite, as the owners showed a relentless spending spree to make sure they had an ultra-competitive side on their hands.

For the Magpies, it worked, but Chelsea’s stature decelerated in the process, as the Blues languished in the 12th spot. In truth, Stamford Bridge fans should thank Thomas Tuchel for his early season points before departing, as those results possibly kept Chelsea in the Premier League.

They have been in relegation form; in fact, barring Southampton, the other two teams in the bottom three have shown better form than Frank Lampard’s Chelsea. The midweek masterclass to Manchester United possibly summed up their season, as this team had no sense of competition.

Hence, for Chelsea, it might come as a sense of relief or one last chance to see the team give them something ahead of the off-season. The Blues will certainly hope and remain desperate for a positive result, but it will come as another opportunity to flex their muscles for Newcastle.

Howe will pump his players for another good showing and give the traveling supporters a glimpse of what’s to come next season. They have already won against Chelsea in the reverse fixture, which may be a brilliant chance to hurt the Blues more.

Here we list the three combined players from both teams who could have a say in proceedings at Stamford Bridge. Newcastle stars Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes dominate the roundup, but Chelsea must rely on their vital cog Enzo Fernandez.

Enzo Fernandez

Chelsea fans don’t know anymore where to pinpoint the blame for their disastrous season. With forwards not scoring to defenders leaking away costly goals, even soft ones. One of their brightest players has been Enzo Fernandez, who some would argue is their player of the season if Chelsea did hold their award functions. If that’s not enough, the Argentine only arrived at the end of January.

His impact has been good but somewhat subdued due to his teammates’ performances. He has no proper midfield partner and often gets isolated as the guy trying to make things happen. Of course, the focus always mirrors the errors, but Fernandez has been everywhere.

If Chelsea were to get anything out of the Newcastle United game, they might again rely on their young Argentine to deliver the goods. However, all Fernandez can do is provide the ammunition, but their wayward attackers need to grab these chances with both arms.

Another area where Fernandez can excel is the midfield zone, and they help Chelsea by asserting some control in the middle. It’s difficult for a lone player to come up against the mightly Bruno Guimaraes or other Magpies stars, but that’s where the game will be won or lost.

Bruno Guimaraes

If the first six months of his Newcastle United tenure wasn’t enough to convince some of his talents, the Brazilian has been a solid force in his first full season. Under the guidance of Howe, Guimaraes has taken to the Premier League by storm and will finish as one of the best midfielders in the division.

The Brazilian is the heartbeat of this Magpies team and produces momentous displays in most games. He’s also a big game player and never tends to shy away from responsibilities. There have been instances where other rivals have outsmarted him, but for the most part, he’s been the anchor to this progressive side.

No wonder he’s become a Barcelona target in the summer despite knowing the astronomical price Newcastle would demand if they decided to sell. Well, under no circumstances will the Magpies even consider letting the Brazilian leave, and they are more likely to give him a bumper new deal.

On to the Chelsea game, Guimaraes will have to play a key role in midfield. He will look at the state of this Chelsea midfield and think it’s a cakewalk at Stamford Bridge. The Brazilian is an expert in managing the tempo and will have a big role as the Magpies will look to start the game fast.

Alexander Isak

Any team would dream of a forward with the flair of Alexander Isak. Correct us if we are wrong, but he’s the closest in the profile to Thierry Henry. He can easily dribble past his opponents and has a creative spark and eye for goal.

Isak has been one of Newcastle’s transformative signings this season and thoroughly justified the huge outlay made to bring him here. Many had pinpointed his goalscoring numbers from last season at Real Sociedad, but those doubts were put to bed by some top-notch performances by the Swede.

To progress Newcastler’s project, he’s the ideal frontman, and in the coming season, possibly the next one, he is likely t usurp Calum Wilson’s No.9 spot for good. Against Chelsea, he will look to make a mark again and pull the strings in the attack for the Magpies.

He will also know the dreadful state of the Chelsea defence, particularly the right side, as he will likely start on the wings again. Isak will have a key role in this clash and will ensure the Blues defenders are on their toes for the game’s duration.