Chelsea will be looking to continue their solid run of form in the league when they travel to St. James’ Park to take on Newcastle United on Saturday.
Prior to the international break, the Magpies suffered a frustrating 2-0 defeat at the hands of Southampton. The Blues, on the other hand, handed Sheffield United a 4-1 hammering.
This fixture is the latest test of Chelsea's credibility as title contenders. A victory would see them go straight to the top of the pile, albeit only temporarily.
1. Goalkeepers & Defenders
Edouard Mendy (GK) - The Blues' number one has been a revelation since his switch from Rennes, keeping six clean sheets in eight outings, while having conceded only once in the league in that period.
Reece James (RB) - James has been particularly impressive in recent weeks after seemingly shrugging off competition from club captain Cezar Azplicueta to make the right-back position his own. He's already developed a good understanding with the likes of Hakim Ziyech.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) - Yet to play a Premier League minute this season, Thiago Silva's absence gives the German a chance to get back in Lampard's good books.
Kurt Zouma (CB) - He's been arguably Chelsea's best defender this season, making his presence felt in both boxes. Having bagged three goals in the league already, Zouma has been very reliable and assured at the back.
Ben Chilwell (LB) - Chilwell has been impressive for Chelsea so far in 2020/21. His overlapping runs, willingness to get to the back post and overall link-up play have been eye-catching. Although he went off just before half-time for England in their 2-0 defeat against Belgium, he could be deemed fit enough to start here.
2. Midfielders
Mason Mount (CM) - The Englishman has been in the spotlight recently over a perceived rivalry with Jack Grealish on international duty. Mount has had to fight for his place in the team but with injuries to Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic, he is likely to get the nod against the Magpies after bagging a goal for his country in the 4-0 thumping of Iceland.
Jorginho (CM) - The Italy international has held firm after serious questions surrounding his ability in previous seasons. Though Lampard has confirmed that Timo Werner will be on penalties following Jorginho's questionable run from 12 yards in recent games, he'll keep his place in the lineup having made the number six position his own.
N'Golo Kanté (CM) - The Frenchman scored the winner for his country in their 1-0 win over Portugal in the Nations League. He's been a mainstay in the Chelsea squad and has grown into the new role out on the right.