Newcastle United have not reached the fifth round of the FA Cup since 2006.
Newcastle United will have to do it the hard way if they are to reach the fifth round of the FA Cup for the first time in 12 seasons as they travel to Chelsea on Sunday.
Rafael Benitez has a Premier League relegation battle to focus on, but Newcastle’s supporters are desperate for some cup glory so the Spaniard may name a strong side.
However, Benitez is not likely to deter from the ultra-defensive approach that he has recently adopted against top-six teams, notably in two close defeats to Manchester City.
Isaac Hayden may be asked to operate in a holding midfield role, dropping back into defence when Chelsea have the ball to combat the threat of Eden Hazard and company.
Ahead of him, Mikel Merino is poised for a recall having not started since the 3-1 victory over Luton Town in the last round, while DeAndre Yedlin could return at right-back.
Freddie Woodman played in goal against the Hatters but is expected to step aside now that Rob Elliot, who has been demoted to Karl Darlow’s deputy in the league, is fit again.
Benitez’s conservative tactics mean there is no room for Ayoze Perez, who scored two of his four goals for the season against Luton, as Joselu is more suited to the lone forward role.
New loan signing Kenedy is not eligible to face his parent club at Stamford Bridge, where Benitez spent the majority of the 2012-13 season, leading the Blues to the semi-finals of this competition.
Here is our predicted Newcastle lineup against Chelsea:
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