‘I’d be shocked’: Paul Merson predicts who will win out of Newcastle United and Chelsea
As Newcastle United prepare to host Chelsea in what could prove a season-defining encounter, the football world is buzzing with anticipation for Sunday’s heavyweight clash at St James’ Park.
With Champions League qualification hanging in the balance, pundits are lining up to predict the outcome of this crucial fixture – and Arsenal legend Paul Merson has delivered a bold verdict that will delight the Toon Army.
Merson, analyzing the match for Sportskeeda, didn’t mince his words when declaring his prediction: “I’d be shocked if Chelsea got anything from this game.”
The former England international highlighted Newcastle’s formidable home form as the decisive factor, pointing to their four consecutive victories at St James’ Park as evidence of the fortress mentality Eddie Howe has cultivated. “When that stadium is rocking,” Merson emphasized, “it becomes an absolute nightmare for visiting teams.”
The Sky Sports pundit acknowledged Chelsea’s recent resurgence under Enzo Maresca, particularly praising midfield duo Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo for their dominant display against Liverpool.
However, he quickly tempered this praise by noting Liverpool’s post-title celebration hangover and stressed that Newcastle’s intensity on home turf presents an entirely different challenge.
Merson also pointed to Chelsea’s dismal recent record in the North East – winless at St James’ Park for three years running – as further evidence supporting his prediction of a 2-1 Newcastle victory.
Beyond the immediate implications for Champions League qualification, Merson floated an intriguing possibility that could send shockwaves through the Premier League.
With Arsenal facing a daunting trip to Anfield, the pundit suggested Newcastle could mount a late charge for second place should results fall their way. “If Aston Villa slip up and Newcastle win this weekend,” Merson speculated, “we could be looking at a dramatic shift in the top four landscape.”
His analysis paints a tantalizing picture where victory over Chelsea, followed by a triumph against Arsenal next week, could potentially see the Magpies leapfrog the Gunners in the table.
The stage is set for a tactical battle between two managers with contrasting philosophies. Howe’s high-energy, pressing game will test Chelsea’s rebuilt midfield structure, while Maresca’s possession-based approach must contend with Newcastle’s raucous home support.
Merson believes the atmosphere could prove the X-factor, recalling how the Geordie faithful have propelled their team to crucial victories throughout this campaign.
Interestingly, Merson’s prediction aligns with that of fellow pundit Chris Sutton, creating a consensus among analysts that Newcastle’s home advantage and European hunger will outweigh Chelsea’s recent improvements.
This shared perspective underscores the growing respect for Howe’s project on Tyneside and the very real possibility of Champions League football returning to St James’ Park after a two-decade absence.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on team selection decisions that could shape the encounter. Will Howe risk recently recovered stars like Joelinton in such a high-stakes match? Can Chelsea’s expensively assembled squad