The Premier League clash between Newcastle United and Chelsea is set for an early kickoff today. Here's everything you
need to know before the match begins.
* **Date:** Saturday, December 20, 2025
* **Time:** 12:30 GMT (7:30am EST, 6pm IST)
* **Location:** St James' Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
* **Referee:** Andy Madley; VAR: Peter Bankes
* **Weather:** Cloudy and cold
* **TV:** TNT Sports 1 (UK); USA, Universo (USA); Star Sports Select HD1 (India); SuperSport Premier League (NGA); check
local listings for other regions.
* **Streaming:** discovery+ (UK); NBC Sports Live, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo (USA); JioHotstar (India); DStv Now (NGA)
**Newcastle United Team News**
After a successful previous season, which saw them finish fifth and secure Champions League qualification, along with
winning a major trophy, Newcastle has had a more challenging time this year. Their results have been inconsistent, with
six wins and six losses. They've scored 21 goals and conceded 20, placing them in the middle of the table.
The departure of Alexander Isak has impacted the team, although Nick Woltemade and Yoanne Wissa (recovered from a knee
injury) are capable replacements. Injury problems have also affected Eddie Howe's defensive lineup. Dan Burn, Sven
Botman, Kieran Trippier, Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth, and Jamaal Lascelles are all unavailable. Nick Pope is doubtful,
and Lewis Hall faces a late fitness assessment.
Despite these challenges, Newcastle's home form has been relatively strong, with their only losses coming against
Arsenal, Liverpool, and Barcelona.
Chelsea is also dealing with their fair share of injuries, although the situation has improved recently. Estêvão is out
with a minor muscular issue, while Levi Colwill, Liam Delap, Dário Essugo, and Roméo Lavia remain sidelined. Delap and
Estêvão are expected to return next weekend.
Manager Enzo Maresca made several changes to the starting lineup for the League Cup quarterfinal in midweek, which
should help to refresh the squad, particularly Enzo Fernández.
Despite speculation surrounding Maresca's future, the manager has stated that he is happy at the club and that the team
is focused on the upcoming match.
Chelsea has struggled at St James' Park in recent years, failing to win there since 2021 and losing their last two
Newcastle currently sits fourth in the league table, while Chelsea is in twelfth position. This match marks the
beginning of a difficult run of fixtures for Chelsea, with games against Aston Villa and Manchester City to follow.