CHELSEA travel to Newcastle United on Saturday aiming to show the Toon that they are still just up and coming pretenders, rather than the real deal.
The Toon were expected to make steady progress up the table after their controversial Saudi takeover 13 months ago – but they are showing signs of racing way ahead of even their own timeline.
Despite new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly’s £250million summer splurge, his side sit six points and four places beneath high-flying, third-placed Toon.
The Blues are still trying to get to grips with new manager Graham Potter’s methods, with the former Brighton boss playing tinkerman with his line-ups and formations.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have found quiet consistency under reigning Manager of the Month Eddie Howe.