Newcastle seeking repeat superb St James’ results versus Chelsea

Newcastle United fans will be in full voice as Premier League champions Chelsea make the long trip up north to St James’ Park, with the hosts hoping to keep up their recent home hoodoo against Jose Mourinho’s men.

Even amid last campaign’s chaos, the Magpies’ magnificent recent record on Tyneside turf when battling the Blues continued, as the Northeast outfit snatched a 2-1 win. So, with three consecutive Toon triumphs on home soil, punters may wish to back Steve McClaren’s men at 5/1 for victory again.

Despite their uncanny run against Chelsea when backed by the Toon Army, however, it may be too much to ask of the Magpies for another shock this time, with odds of 14/5 for a draw much more reasonable, considering McClaren is yet to guide his side to a league win.

Poacher Papiss Cisse was famously the thorn in Mourinho’s side last time Chelsea pitched-up in town, contributing a brace, and the Senegal striker is 10/3 to be on target anytime if fit for this fray. Alternative attacking options include Dutch plotter Georginio Wijnaldum (6/1) and fellow summer signing Florian Thauvin (5/1).

Guests Chelsea have, of course, had their own troubles this term, falling behind early in their attempts to retain the title. A much-needed win last time out against rivals Arsenal could just have been the catalyst required, however, so the Blues are obvious favourites at 8/13, or a more appealing price of 7/4 to win to nil.

All the attention before kick-off will revolve around suspended sharpshooter Diego Costa’s replacement in the starting XI. It would be a surprise to see out-of-form Radamel Falcao leading the line, but Loic Remy, who once spent a successful season on loan at St James’, did his chances no harm after netting in the Capital One Cup.

When asked for his opinion of Newcastle’s poor start, Remy said “I’m surprised at them because they are quite a big, strong team. I am sure they will get better very soon. It’s my old club, so it’s always a pleasure to play against them.”

If given the nod the French forward is 5/1 to bag first, while recent acquisition Pedro Rodriguez also chipped in with the final strike last time out, and is a 7/4 anytime shot to hit his third for the London club across all competitions. Attacking spark Eden Hazard, who once hit a hat-trick versus the Magpies, is also 7/4 in that same market.

Betting tip: Remy is great value at 5/1 to net fist on his return to Newcastle