“Make Them Kick Uphill” — John Terry Reveals Clever Trick Chelsea Must Use at St James’ Park

Chelsea head into one of the Premier League’s most demanding away trips this weekend, and club legend John Terry believes the Blues can give themselves an early edge at St James’ Park by using a small but important detail many fans overlook.

Ahead of the clash with Newcastle United, Terry has offered both tactical insight and a reminder of just how difficult this fixture can be, especially after a turbulent week off the pitch for Chelsea and head coach Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea have not won away at Newcastle since 2021, and history shows that even strong Chelsea sides have often struggled to control games on Tyneside. The crowd, the intensity, and the unique conditions inside the stadium all combine to make it one of the league’s toughest environments.

John Terry explains Newcastle’s hidden home advantage

Speaking on TikTok, Terry highlighted something he learned during his long playing career — a subtle factor that can influence matches at St James’ Park.

“Whoever’s captain, flip them round, make them kick toward the Gallagher End in the first half,” Terry explained.

“For those of you who don’t know, there’s a slope. There’s a big slope at St James’ Park, especially when you’re playing.”

@johnterry26Newcastle away. Physical and Tough game and dealing with the slope at St James Park 💙 Good Luck Boys. #chelsea #cfc #chelseafc #premierleague #johnterry

♬ original sound – John Terry

While modern football often focuses on tactics, pressing systems, and data, Terry’s point is a reminder that stadium design and pitch conditions still matter. The slope Terry refers to may not be obvious on television, but players feel it immediately, especially in a high-tempo game.

Kicking uphill or downhill can affect passing weight, pressing intensity, and even how tired players feel late in each half. Terry believes Chelsea can turn this detail into an advantage by forcing Newcastle to play against the slope early on.

It is the kind of detail that experienced teams and leaders pay attention to — and something Chelsea’s captain on the day will need to be sharp about before kick-off.

Why St James’ Park remains one of the toughest away trips

Newcastle’s home record in recent seasons shows why Terry’s advice matters. The Magpies thrive on momentum, early pressure, and crowd energy. When they start quickly, St James’ Park becomes hostile, noisy, and relentless.

Newcastle’s physical style, combined with aggressive pressing and direct attacking play, often overwhelms visiting sides in the opening stages. Even top teams have struggled to settle when they concede early chances or lose control of midfield battles.

Chelsea’s recent struggles away from home make this challenge even bigger. One win in their last four league matches is not enough to keep pace with the teams above them, and Maresca knows that performances must improve quickly.

Fresh legs could give Chelsea a boost

Terry, however, remains quietly optimistic about Chelsea’s chances. The midweek win over Cardiff saw wholesale changes, meaning many of Chelsea’s regular starters are well-rested going into Saturday’s game.

“Obviously, we’re coming off a win against Cardiff where players have had loads of time to rest in the week,” Terry said. “So I’m expecting a few changes from the manager.”

Squad rotation could prove crucial. Newcastle’s high-energy style demands physical freshness, and Chelsea’s ability to introduce pace and intensity from the first minute could decide the contest.

With players returning fresh and competition for places increasing, Maresca has an opportunity to make a strong statement. A disciplined start, combined with Terry’s coin-toss advice, could help Chelsea avoid being dragged into Newcastle’s rhythm early on.

Pressure building on Maresca and Chelsea

Beyond the tactics, the wider context of this match cannot be ignored. Speculation around Maresca’s future has dominated headlines, and results remain the clearest way to silence doubt.

Breaking a four-year winless run at St James’ Park would send a powerful message — to supporters, rivals, and the club’s hierarchy. It would also close the gap on the Premier League’s top three and restore belief after a mixed run of form.

Chelsea cannot afford another slow start or defensive lapse. If they allow Newcastle to build momentum, no slope or coin toss will save them. But if they start smartly, manage the crowd, and control the key moments, Terry believes the Blues can turn a difficult trip into a defining result.