After Manchester United winning their 19th Premier League title, following their draw with Blackburn, there might seem little to look forward for Chelsea fans in the match against Newcastle. There is a small matter of sealing the second place from Arsenal, although I doubt if Arsenal will actually want that at this moment. So, the remaining games against Newcastle United and Everton are basically meaningless games, although you can look forward to players wearing the new Chelsea home kit for the 2011-12 season.
Also, there is the small matter of finally having the chance to see a formation that has been designed to suit Fernando Torres rather than for the team winning. Since his arrival, Torres has had to adjust for the benefit the team. Now, it could be the other way round, which should bring out his best. Also, there is every chance that this could be the final home game for Ancelotti, who is widely tipped to leave in the summer.
Even though most of the Chelsea players and fans are in support of Ancelotti, owner Roman Abramovich seems to have lost patience going by the various reports. Even so, it hasn’t stopped Ancelotti from being positive and he has provided the perfect answer for those who would be deflated ahead of the home match against Newcastle United.
Ancelotti has said,
“Man United was the same last season. They finished in second place and they were calm, they were quiet, they bought the right players, Chicharito was one, and they did a fantastic season. This is the good way to manage defeat and I hope that Chelsea will be able to manage this.”
These words are very inspirational indeed, but will Carlo be there to make it happen? Will this be Didier Drogba’s last home game for Chelsea? Only time will answer these questions.
My Prediction: Chelsea to win 3-1
Possible team line up:
Chelsea (4-3-3): Cech, Ivanovic, Luiz, Terry, Cole, Ramires, Lampard, Essien, Torres, Anelka, Malouda.
Newcastle United (4-4-1-1): Krul, Enrique, S Taylor, Coloccini, Simpson, Gutierrez, Barton, Tiote, R Taylor, Lovenkrands, Ameobi.
Last Meeting: Newcastle United 1 – 1 Chelsea
Kick Off Time:
Chelsea v Newcastle United: 13:30 BST
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London.
Shown live on: Sky Sports 1(UK), ESPN (India).
