"I am going Newcastle win"— Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton Predicts Another St James’ Park Defeat for Blues

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton believes the Blues are set for another difficult afternoon when they travel to face Newcastle United at St James’ Park. Despite Chelsea arriving with some momentum, Sutton has made it clear that he does not expect Enzo Maresca’s side to return to London with any points.

Chelsea head into the game after two positive results. They beat Everton in the Premier League and followed that up with a Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City. Those victories have helped calm the mood around the club after a week filled with off-field talk. Even so, Sutton feels that history, pressure, and the venue itself all work against Chelsea.

A Stadium That Has Been a Big Problem for Chelsea

For several years now, St James’ Park has been one of the toughest grounds for Chelsea to visit. The record is clear and worrying for the Blues. They have lost their last four games there in all competitions.

Chelsea’s last win at Newcastle came back in 2021 under Thomas Tuchel. Since then, every trip north has ended in disappointment. Last season, under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea went to St James’ Park twice and lost both matches 2-0. For Sutton, this recent history matters a lot.

Speaking to the BBC, Sutton said his prediction was mainly based on that poor run. He believes some grounds just become difficult places to go, no matter the form or players available.

Why Sutton Is Backing Newcastle Again

On paper, Chelsea might feel this is a good moment to play Newcastle. The Magpies have not been at their best recently and suffered a heavy defeat to Sunderland before recovering with a cup win over Fulham.

However, Sutton feels league football at home is very different, especially for Newcastle. The crowd, the noise, and the energy inside the stadium often give them a big lift. Even when Newcastle are short on players or confidence, Sutton believes they usually find something extra in front of their own fans.

He also pointed out that Chelsea have problems of their own, especially away from the pitch.

Questions Around Enzo Maresca

A lot of the talk this week has been about Maresca and his relationship with the club’s owners. Sutton does not think the manager is unhappy with how his team is playing, but he does believe the situation could affect Chelsea’s focus.

“There is a worry for Chelsea,” Sutton explained. “If the manager feels he is not being backed properly, that can become a problem.”

Sutton was careful to praise Chelsea’s style of play. He said the team are very clear in how they want to play and that they will cause Newcastle some problems with the ball. But he also warned that playing well does not always mean winning, especially in a stadium like St James’ Park.

Injury Problems for Both Teams

Both sides have injury concerns, which could play a big part in how the game unfolds. Chelsea will be without several important players, including Estevao, Liam Delap, Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill. These absences limit Maresca’s choices, particularly in defence and midfield.

Newcastle’s injury list is even longer, especially at the back. Dan Burn, Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are all ruled out. That leaves Eddie Howe short of experienced defenders.

There is some good news for Newcastle, though. Lewis Hall and Nick Pope could return, while Yoane Wissa is back and already making an impact. Howe praised Wissa’s movement, fitness and desire after his return, saying he looked sharp and hungry.

Sutton’s Final Prediction

Despite Newcastle’s injury problems and Chelsea’s recent wins, Sutton is sticking with a home victory. He has predicted a 2-1 win for Newcastle.

In his view, Chelsea’s long winless run at St James’ Park, the pressure around Maresca, and the power of the home crowd all give Newcastle the edge. Sutton believes Chelsea will compete and have chances, but not enough to finally break their poor run on Tyneside.

For Chelsea, this match is another big test of their progress under Maresca. Ending a four-year wait for a win at St James’ Park would send a strong message. For Sutton, however, the signs point to another frustrating afternoon for the Blues.