But until the Magpies reach that magic mark that ensures Premier League safety, fears will remain on Tyneside.
The 40-point tally is one often mentioned by pundits, but is that really the safety barrier for safety?
Here’s a look at the total needed over the last 10 years – and the numbers are lower than you might think.
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9. 11/12 - 37
QPR stayed in the Premier League by the skin of their teeth nine years ago as Bolton Wanderers finally dropped out of the top flight in third bottom. Now look where they are! Wanderers ended the campaign with 36 points - enough to keep them up most years after this - compared to QPR's 37 points. Both teams won 10 games each while QPR bettered Bolton's goal difference by eight goals, -23 to -31. Photo: Clive Mason
10. 10/11 - 40
The tightest relegation battle in recent memory as Wolverhampton Wanderers edged out bitter Midlands rivals Birmingham City. Wolves ended the campaign on 40 points, one ahead of Birmingham, 39, with a one better goal difference -20 to -21. Eleven wins did the trick for Wolves all told, with Birmingham recording just eight that year. Photo: Chris Brunskill