Chelsea will look to focus on matters on the pitch when they hosts Newcastle in the Premier League this afternoon, following a turbulent week off the field that has seen the club plunged into further uncertainty.

Chelsea have been allowed to continue “football-related activities” after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK Government but doubts remain over the future of the club and members of the first-team squad.

FOLLOW LIVE: Team news and all the action as Chelsea play Newcastle

Thomas Tuchel’s side returned to action on Thursday, just hours of the news of the government’s sanctions broke, and they defeated Norwich to strengthen their grip on a Premier League top-four spot.

Only Liverpool have picked up more points than Newcastle over the last six games and Eddie Howe’s side have pulled away from danger following their excellent form, even though the situation around Chelsea has raised further questions surrounding Newcastle’s own ownership.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the match today.

When is Chelsea vs Newcastle?

The match will kick off at 2pm GMT on Sunday 13 March at Stamford Bridge, London.

How can I watch it?

It will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League, with coverage starting from 1pm. If you’re not a Sky customer you can grab a NOWTV Day Pass here to watch without a subscription.

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Confirmed line-ups

Chelsea XI - Mendy, Chalobah, Christensen, Rudiger, Sarr, Kante, Jorginho, Mount, Ziyech, Havertz, Werner

Newcastle XI - Dubravka, Manquillo, Schar, Lascelles, Burn, Targett, Guimaraes, S Longstaff, Almiron, Murphy, Wood

Odds

Chelsea: 3/10

Draw: 17/4

Newcastle: 10/1

Prediction

Away from the uncertainty off the pitch, this is set to be a real test of Newcastle resurgence under Eddie Howe and Chelsea will need to be sharper than they were in the second half against Norwich on Thursday. Thomas Tuchel’s side are in good form themselves, however, and are still favourites. A win would be important too, with Arsenal threatening to breathe down their necks. Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle

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