Elliot In Line For Chelsea Start

By Steven Back

Father-to-be Rob Elliot is set to start his third consecutive game as Newcastle United face Chelsea at St. James' Park on Saturday (12.45pm kick-off).

The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper almost missed the Magpies' midweek trip to Burnley following complications with his heavily-pregnant wife, Robyn.

However, Elliot arrived at Turf Moor in time to take his place between the sticks and, speaking to the media on Thursday, manager Alan Pardew confirmed that the 28-year-old will be available to face the Barclays Premier League leaders on Tyneside.

"Fortunately there seems to be a bit of a lull in the pregnancy so we are okay and not on tenterhooks," said Pardew.

"Rob is important to us He is our number one at the moment (while Tim Krul is injured).

"We are not particularly well covered in the goalkeeping area but he is important to us and I don't think there will be a problem for this weekend."

Pardew was pleased with Elliott's performance on Tuesday night, especially as the stopper has been quietly struggling with a minor leg injury.

And he expects another impressive display from the former Charlton custodian if United are to end Chelsea's unbeaten start to the season.

"The more encouraging news is that Rob's injury, which he was carrying slightly, particularly in the Burnley game, seems to have clear up," added the boss.

"He had some big tests at Burnley in terms of his kicking, so we are really pleased with that and I think the last two games will have done him a lot of good.

"I'm hoping for a big game from him on Saturday and he will need to do well because Chelsea are a pretty good team."