Shay Given Slams Garnacho as “Dangerous” Challenge as Chelsea Rally to Draw

Newcastle 2-2 Chelsea | Premier League

Chelsea recovered from a disastrous first-half showing to earn a point at St James’ Park, but former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given has voiced concern over a “really dangerous” challenge from Alejandro Garnacho during the clash.

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Chelsea Comeback Denies Newcastle

The Blues went into the break 2-0 down after a Nick Woltemade brace, with Newcastle dominating the opening 45 minutes.

However, Chelsea returned a transformed side in the second half. A brilliant Reece James free-kick sparked the comeback, before Joao Pedro found the equaliser to rescue a point for the Blues.

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Shay Given Criticises Garnacho

Garnacho, who had scored twice against Cardiff in midweek, started against Chelsea but failed to make an impact. Former Newcastle keeper Shay Given wasn’t impressed with one particular incident involving the Manchester United winger.

Speaking to BBC’s Match of the Day, Given said:

“The first one came in the first half and I thought it was a really nasty challenge from Alejandro Garnacho. If you watch it slowly, he doesn’t make any attempt to play the ball, he goes over the top and clearly catches him really high up.”

“VAR didn’t intervene but I think that’s a really dangerous tackle from Garnacho and one he gets away with.”

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Controversial Moments

The match wasn’t short on contentious decisions. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed his frustration over Trevoh Chalobah’s challenge on Anthony Gordon in the box, believing it should have resulted in a penalty.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s defensive resilience, combined with James and Pedro’s contributions, helped the Blues escape St James’ Park with a vital point despite the early setbacks.

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Estevao Set to Return Against Aston Villa

Chelsea lacked options on the wings against Newcastle, with Estevao Willian sidelined through a muscle injury and Jamie Gittens also missing from the squad.

Maresca has confirmed that Estevao should be fit to feature against Aston Villa next weekend, a timely boost for the Blues as they look to strengthen their attacking options. The 18-year-old has made a strong impact this season, and his return is eagerly awaited.

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Final Word

Chelsea showed remarkable character to claw back from two goals down at St James’ Park, but the match highlighted both the physicality of the Premier League and the importance of having key players fit and available.

With Estevao returning and Garnacho drawing criticism for his tackle, the Blues now look forward to facing Aston Villa with renewed firepower and determination.