Alan Pardew: 'Pressure on Chelsea'

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew believes that there is pressure on Chelsea ahead of this afternoon's match at St James' Park.

Interim coach Rafael Benitez has had a hard time of winning over the Stamford Bridge faithful, while the team's form has been patchy in recent weeks.

The Blues have drawn their last two fixtures in the Premier League - at home to Southampton and in midweek at Reading.

They were also held to a 2-2 draw at Brentford in the FA Cup.

"Just recently, a little bit of pressure has fallen their way because of a few draws, when they have actually looked like they were going to win games," Pardew told reporters.

"Sometimes you play really well but can't get over the line and get a win, and I think that's where they are at.

"They will be searching for that against us, and I am hoping that we can stay in the game and they get edgy towards the end and we see a victory out."

The Magpies are four points clear of the Premier League drop zone.