No Premier League club needs the World Cup break quite like Chelsea. Injuries have robbed Graham Potter of key players, results have been poor in the top flight, and it's been several years since the mood among the club's fanbase was quite so dark.
Yet before many of the Chelsea players jet off to Qatar to represent their countries – and those not selected enjoy a well-deserved break – the Blues face Newcastle United at St James' Park. It is not an easy fixture; Eddie Howe's side are third in the Premier League table and unbeaten in their previous ten matches in all competitions.
"I think Eddie has done a fantastic job," said Potter ahead of the game. "He has improved the players that were there, improved the team with some really good recruitment – they've spent some money to reinforce the team. I could speak for half an hour about how good I think Eddie is as a person and as a coach. I have huge admiration for him, and he has galvanised the team, and there is fantastic support there at St James' Park."
