Newcastle United fell to an agonising 2-1 loss against Chelsea at St. James’ Park on Saturday afternoon, and there were plenty of talking points to take away from the match.
The Magpies set up with a back three against Chelsea as Rafa Benitez looked to contain a dangerous Blues attack, and the first half saw each side manage just one shot on target.
Chelsea took the lead through an Eden Hazard penalty after a controversial decision before Joselu headed the Magpies level, but a late own goal from DeAndre Yedlin sealed their second loss of the season.
This is Futbol have picked out three things learned about Newcastle v Chelsea below.
Rondon is a shrewd signing
Summer signing Salomon Rondon earned his first start for the Magpies against Chelsea, and while he did not manage to score, the Venezuelan still managed to put in a solid display. It was clear for all to see just why Benitez identified Rondon as his top striker target this summer, with the big hitman putting in a tireless display up front for Newcastle. His hold up play was stellar, and his footballing intelligence was on show on several occasions as he linked up nicely with teammates. Goals have always been a problem for Rondon though, and Benitez will be hoping the 28-year-old finds his shooting boots soon for the club.
Shelvey is the key
One of the surprises that came before the match was the omission of midfielder Jonjo Shelvey from the squad, with it being revealed that the pass master was suffering with a thigh problem. New signing Ki Sung-yueng put in a poor display in his place, and Newcastle desperately missed Shelvey in the centre of the park. The 26-year-old’s passing range is unrivalled and in a game in which the Magpies were on the back foot for the vast majority, having a player like that would have been hugely welcomed. If it was not clear already, Shelvey is probably Benitez’s most important player and is indispensable to this side. Hopefully his injury setback is not too serious, because Newcastle desperately need him back if they are to get their season really up and running.
Back three is a good alternative
One of the main changes that Benitez made for Chelsea was the introduction of a back three. While in reality this was more of a back five, it was a system which worked well for the most part, and one which will offer Newcastle a good alternative going forward. New signings Federico Fernandez and Fabian Schar played relatively well, despite the penalty in the second half, and that will give Benitez confidence going forward. Against the big teams this looks like a system which Benitez will look to use, and despite the loss, it is one that could definitely work for the Magpies this season.