Back into the side for the 4-0 destruction of Burnley last weekend, the England international has suffered a fresh setback and missed the win over Norwich City at Carrow Road.

Thomas Tuchel has rarely been able to enjoy long spells without some form of a selection problem this season.

Last Saturday at Turf Moor felt like the Blues' luck was changing, Tuchel had a virtually fully fit squad with the exception of long-term absentee Ben Chilwell.

Reece James put on a masterful display, Chelsea's attack suddenly had fresh impetus and, despite off-pitch chaos regarding our ownership, there was excitement over how that 4-0 win could be built upon.

Although Chelsea did continue their good league form with a routine 3-1 win against Norwich City at Carrow Road on Thursday, Tuchel approaches Sunday afternoon's clash against Newcastle with a new dilemma.

Elsewhere, Antonio Rudiger will likely return to the starting lineup and there is a hope Cesar Azpilicueta will be able to deputise for James on the right despite having to come off at half-time during the week.

Such is the form of Kai Havertz in the central striking role, the German is expected to keep his place as the focal point of the attack even with the tight schedule in mind.

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Romelu Lukaku is unhappy with his bit-part role at the club but, with so much uncertainty off the field, Havertz is currently more of a guarantee on the pitch at the moment.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Mendy; Christensen, Silva, Rudiger; Azpilicueta, Kante, Jorginho, Saul , Mount, Havertz, Werner.

Injured: Reece James (muscle), Ben Chilwell (knee)

Doubt: Christian Pulisic (illness)