Chelsea have made a fine start to their Premier League campaign so far this season, winning both of their opening games in a relatively convincing manner.

Maurizio Sarri began his career as Chelsea manager against Huddersfield, thrashing the Terriers 3-0 in a fantastic display.

Last weekend, the Blues continued their winning ways by defeating London rivals Arsenal 3-2, although they did look shaky at times.

But it’s fair to say that it has been the perfect start for Sarri and his men so far, and with Newcastle United next on the fixture list, it will be expected that Chelsea make it three wins from three.

Ahead of the game, the Blues might well have received a small piece of good news, as the match-day referee was announced this week.

Paul Tierney will be the main man for the game at St James’ Park on Sunday, his first ever game officiating against the Blues. The 37-year-old is one of the best at his job in the country, and possesses all the credentials needed to be classed as such – according to legend Keith Hackett in this blog about refereeing standards.

Chelsea already have a lot going for them in this game, as their record against Newcastle is fairly good – winning 22 and losing just 12 of their 46 match-ups.

But despite referee Tierney never being in charge of a Blues game, he has refereed Newcastle on five occasions.

Luckily for Chelsea, the Toon Army have only ever won one of those games, with that win coming back in 2016 against Barnsley.

Tierney also officiated Newcastle when they lost to Sheffield Wednesday, Bournemouth on two occasions, and Manchester City.

It will be a tough test for the referee with such a famous fixture being played. Chelsea will be eager to continue their brilliant form, and Newcastle will be wary that a victory is needed sooner rather than later in case a relegation scrap begins to form.