Newcastle United installed as relegation favourites by bookmakers

Steve Bruce’s side, 5/2 for the drop on the eve of the new campaign, have been backed into evens after successive Premier League defeats.

Newcastle were convincingly beaten 3-1 by Norwich City at Carrow Road yesterday.

BoyleSports spokesman Lawrence Lyons said: “Newcastle’s start has really caught the eye of punters.

“They’re more likely relegation candidates than any other team in the league now, having been gambled into even money from 5/2.”