Preview: Chelsea vs. Newcastle United

A loss for either side at Stamford Bridge this evening could put an end to their chances of securing fourth spot and Champions League football for next season.

Hosting Chelsea are the favourites to take maximum points, having scored six against Queens Park Rangers on Sunday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Newcastle's recent good form was brought to an abrupt end during the weekend's 4-0 loss to relegation strugglers Wigan Athletic.

Chelsea defenders David Luiz and Gary Cahill will miss the encounter with injuries. However, the Blues will be boosted by the return of Branislav Ivanovic from a three-match suspension.

Interim manager Roberto Di Matteo will also have to make a decision between Fernando Torres and Didier Drogba in attack.

Visiting boss Alan Pardew has one new injury concern in the form of full-back Danny Simpson, who is struggling with a muscular complaint.

Should the Magpies slip to a defeat it will be the first time in 21 outings that they have lost consecutive games.

Current form:

Chelsea: DWWDDW Newcastle: WWWWWL

Possible lineups:

Chelsea: Cech; Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Terry, Cole; Essien; Sturridge, Romeu, Malouda, Kalou; Torres

Newcastle: Krul; Perch, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon; Tiote, Cabaye, Gutiérrez; Ben Arfa, Cisse, Ba

Sports Mole says: 2-1