Amid protests and constant talk concerning Rafa Benitez's contract talks, Newcastle go into a tough game against Chelsea this afternoon. 

The Magpies lost their first game of the season against Tottenham and then could only manage a draw against Cardiff City last weekend, in a game which saw summer signing Kenedy have a terrible afternoon.

Against Chelsea, Newcastle face a team that looks to be settling well under new manager Maurizio Sarri.

Under Sarri, Chelsea are beginning to replicate Napoli's high press and quick forward-thinking football.

It's going to be essential this afternoon that Newcastle stay compact but also provide some threat going forward and with that in mind, Benitez must start new boys Yoshinori Muto and Salomon Rondon.

Earlier in the week, the Spaniard confirmed that both players might be fit enough to start today.

The Breakdown

So far this season, Benitez has chosen to deploy Joselu up front with Ayoze Perez behind him in the number 10 role.

While Joselu has registered a goal this season, the Spaniard is far too inconsistent to keep his place.

Rondon isn't a huge goal threat either but against the big teams, it's essential to have a striker who can hold the ball up and start attacks and bring players into the game.

Combined with Muto's superb work rate and energy, the two could form a potent duo that could cause some problems for Chelsea.

It may not be a recipe that is going to ensure Newcastle win but it will certainly give them a better chance.

Thoughts Newcastle fans?