Match Preview: Chelsea v Newcastle United

It could be a crucial night for Newcastle United in their quest for Champions League football.

The Magpies face an in-form Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as the race for fourth place reaches its climax.

Along with Tottenham, Alan Pardew's men are just one point ahead of the Blues in the Premier League table. Tonight's match could have a real impact on the final standings at the end of the season.

Speaking ahead of the game, Pardew said: "Although we're a point above Chelsea, we're certainly the outsiders. But Wednesday night is a key night I think."

The Magpies boss added: 'We want to give our fans an end to the season that makes them proud, because we've done absolutely brilliant. And the performance in the first-half against Wigan wouldn't have made anybody proud. So we'll make sure we put in a performance that send our fans home proud regardless of the result.'

On the injury front, Newcastle may have Danny Simpson available for this evening's clash. The defender had picked up an ankle injury in Saturday's defeat to Wigan but is expected to be fit. French pair Gabriel Obertan (ankle) and Sylvain Marveaux (groin) could also make the trip after returning to training.