PREVIEW: Newcastle vs Chlesea

By Matthew Jones
March 1 2003

Jonathon Woodgate will today make his debut as Newcastle face Chelsea at St James' Park. With Manchester United in Worthington Cup action, The Magpies' have the chance to go second in the Premiership if they beat fourth-placed Chelsea.

Chelsea Preview

Kick-Off - 12:30

Newcastle will be confident after their midweek Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen when Alan Shearer scored a hat-trick.

Jonathan Woodgate is in line to finally make his Newcastle debut after recovering from a thigh strain. Woodgate has been unable to play since his £9m move from Leeds a month ago because of injury.

Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit returns from suspension as the Blues aim to bounce back from defeat to Blackburn.

With Manchester United in Worthington Cup action, Newcastle have the chance to go second.

We all know what a small minority of the Chelsea fans can be like at such tense games, but I don't think there is much need to worry. If you were worried about any trouble, which a few people I spoke to were (They had heard what the Chelsea "Headhunters" get upto), then there is no need. Remember, this is the 21st Century and there will be a nice number of Police there. It should be a trouble-free game and a good one too!

Prediction: Newcastle 2 - 1 Chelsea