How Chelsea could line up against Newcastle United

Chelsea face Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday evening looking to extend their unbeaten run in the top flight to four matches.

Frank Lampard has witnessed his side record seven points from matches against Arsenal, Brighton & Hove Albion and Burnley, ensuring that they have kept hold of fourth place in the standings.

However, ahead of the trip to St James' Park, Lampard has a number of selection dilemmas, both in terms of personnel and system.

Here, Sports Mole predicts how the Blues may line up for the showdown in the North-East.

Out: Christian Pulisic (groin), Marcos Alonso (buttock), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Achilles) Doubtful: N'Golo Kante (hamstring)

> Click here for Chelsea's latest injury and suspension news ahead of this match

With doubts remaining over the fitness of N'Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic is likely to be first in line for a recall to the centre of midfield.

The Croatia international could potentially replace Mason Mount, with Lampard instead opting to show faith in Ross Barkley.

Providing that he goes with a back four, Kurt Zouma is favourite to get the nod over Andreas Christensen due to the physical threat offered by Joelinton.

Reece James and Cesar Azpilicueta are expected to occupy the full-back roles, leaving Emerson Palmieri to remain among the replacements.

As Christian Pulisic continues to recover from a muscular problem, Callum Hudson-Odoi should get another chance to impress on the flank.