Newcastle have a goalkeeping dilemma ahead of the trip to face Chelsea
Without a win in five Premier League games, Rafael Benitez takes his Newcastle United side to face Chelsea Saturday afternoon, and has a major selection dilemma to contend with.
Rob Elliot has been Newcastle’s regular goalkeeper in the Premier League this season, but Karl Darlow was given an opportunity to impress in the 2-2 draw away to West Bromwich Albion in midweek. Although he was unable to keep a clean sheet, Darlow commanded his penalty area well and made some impressive stops.
Elliot has conceded 17 goals in his 13 Premier League appearances this campaign, and has had a sense of vulnerability about him, which hasn’t helped Newcastle’s defence.
Darlow’s Premier League experience is rather limited, though, as he has only ever played ten games in the top flight – but he was a regular in the Championship last season as he played a major part in helping Newcastle to earn promotion.
Facing Chelsea’s attack, including Alvaro Morata, who has scored eight goals in the Premier League this season, and the superb Eden Hazard, is a daunting prospect for Newcastle, but with Darlow in goal they might have greater security about them.
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