Newcastle vs Chelsea

1st Selection: Lewis Miley 1+ Fouls Committed

Lewis Miley is not usually a high-volume fouler, but the circumstances suggest he could be put under real pressure in this matchup. He is expected to line up out of position at right-back, which presents a difficult challenge. Miley is likely to be tested by Alejandro Garnacho, who has drawn 11 fouls in just seven appearances, while Marc Cucurella, fouled 14 times across 15 games, is expected to overlap frequently. That combination should place sustained pressure on Miley and increase the likelihood of him committing at least one foul.

2nd Selection: Joao Pedro 1+ Fouls Won

João Pedro’s ability to hold the ball up consistently draws contact from defenders, and the data strongly backs this up. He is averaging 1.99 fouls won per 90 minutes and has drawn at least one foul in 14 of his 15 league appearances for Chelsea this season. Coming up against physical defenders such as Thiaw and Schär, and with his habit of dropping into midfield to receive possession, João Pedro should find multiple opportunities to win a foul.

3rd Selection: Cole Palmer 1+ Shot

Cole Palmer’s season has been disrupted by a groin injury that has limited his minutes, but there are clear signs of momentum returning. He started against Everton last weekend and scored a superb goal, helping Chelsea secure all three points. Palmer has attempted at least one shot in five of his six league appearances this season, with the only exception coming against Manchester United when he was forced off after 21 minutes following a red card. With Newcastle struggling for defensive depth due to injuries, Palmer should find space to get shots away once again. He registered three shots in this fixture last season and looks well placed to land this selection comfortably.