The game, much like the Blues’ clash with Norwich last weekend – which they won 7-0 – looks set to be a very one-sided affair.

Chelsea head into the weekend’s Premier League action sitting top of the division

Having scored 23 and conceded just three in nine league outings so far.

Newcastle, on the other hand, are one of just three sides yet to pick up a win in the English top-flight this term.

The Magpies also have the second-worst defensive record in the division at present, with Norwich

Who conceded seven to Chelsea last week, the only side to have shipped more (23) United vs Chelsea betting tips: Preview, predictions & odds

Ahead of Saturday’s game, Thomas Tuchel would speak to the press on Friday afternoon

confirming that all of Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner and Christian Pulisic would miss out:

Why Mason Mount is missing for Chelsea vs Newcastle

Ahead of kick-off on Saturday, Chelsea would release their matchday squad an hour before.

And the above trio were indeed absent. Elsewhere

Though, it was somewhat surprising to see that Mason Mount was not in the starting line-up nor was he on the subs bench:

An explanation for Mount’s absence has since been provided, however, with it confirmed that he is out due to illness