Rafael Benitez expects strong Chelsea response in FA Cup tie

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has warned his players to beware a backlash from Chelsea in Sunday afternoon's FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are still reeling from their EFL Cup disappointment in midweek after crashing out at the quarter-final stage against London rivals Arsenal.

Premier League champions Chelsea are also well out of title contention this time around, trailing leaders Manchester City by 15 points, and Barcelona stand in their path for a place in the last eight of the Champions League.

Benitez therefore expects all focus to be on tomorrow's FA Cup fourth-round tie, telling reporters at his pre-match presser: "It's a different approach for them. I'm sure that they will consider this the most important competition for them right now.

"Obviously after, they will play another competition, but the league is very difficult for them and they are out of the Carabao Cup, so I think it will be a very strong side in front of us."

Newcastle beat Luton Town 3-1 to progress through to round four, while Chelsea beat Norwich City at the second attempt.