Chelsea‘s manager Frank Lampard has confirmed a few injury absences from his team ahead of their final fixture of the Premier League season against Newcastle. The Chelsea boss has revealed that N’Golo Kante, Billy Gilmour, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will miss the game due to injuries, whereas, Willian could be a doubt after picking up a knock in training.
N’Golo Kante, who played the full 90 minutes in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, has struggled with injuries this season. The midfielder missed extended periods due to hamstring and adductor injuries, and rejoin Chelsea training earlier this week, but Lampard confirmed that he will miss the final league game of the season. Billy Gilmour remains out with a knee injury with no timeframe on his return, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek is still feeling discomfort after an ankle injury and will not be back until fully healed. Willian might also be a doubt for the game after picking up a knock in training. Frank Lampard said: “Willian is carrying a knock. We’ll see.”
Chelsea is currently in third place in the Premier League and has already secured qualification for the Champions League for next season. However, the Blues will be keen to finish the season on a positive note before they shift their focus to their upcoming FA Cup final against Arsenal on August 1. Chelsea has not won a Premier League title since their triumph in 2016/17, but Frank Lampard’s first season in charge has been a positive one despite the club’s transfer ban.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United, who are currently in 14th place in the Premier League, is still not mathematically safe from relegation. Steve Bruce’s side needs a positive result against Chelsea to ensure their survival in England’s top-flight. However, they will have to do so without midfielder Allan Saint-Maximin who was forced off in their previous match against Brighton and Hove Albion with a minor injury. Fabian Schar is also doubtful due to a shoulder injury, while Jamaal Lascelles and Andy Carroll remain sidelined.
In conclusion, Chelsea will be without a few key players in their final Premier League match of the season against Newcastle, with an eye on the FA Cup final against Arsenal in August. Meanwhile, Newcastle will have to put up a good performance to secure their place in the Premier League for next season, missing a few key personnel themselves.
