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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1. 19/20 - 35
Last season a total of 35 points would have kept you in the division - United are only 10 points off that now.
Aston Villa managed to scrape fourth bottom, having looked doomed at one stage, with Bournemouth dropping into the Championship on 34 points from their 38 games.
Both sides won nine games in the season, while Bournemouth's superior goal difference, -25 to -26, would likely have kept them up, had it ever come to that. Photo: Alex Morton
2. 18/19 - 35
And again, 35 was the magic number two seasons ago as Brighton edged out Cardiff City, who dropped out of top flight in the second season after promotion.
The Seagulls finished the campaign with nine wins compared to the Bluebirds' 10, but the all-important points tally told a different story with Chris Hughton & Co getting 36 points, to Cardiff's 35.
Goal difference was also in the south coast side's favour, bettering Cardiff by ten goals, -25 to -35. Photo: Mike Hewitt
3. 17/18 - 34
Slightly lower three seasons back, 34 would have kept Southampton in the top flight. They did, however, amass 36 points from their 38 games that year.
Swansea City, on the other hand, managed just 33 points, although they did better the Saints in terms of wins - the Swans recorded eight compared to seven for the St Mary's outfit.
Southampton had a goal difference of -19, with Swansea finishing on -28. Photo: Clive Mason
4. 16/17 - 35
This campaign turned out to be a no contest with Watford staying up by SIX points come the final day.
The Hornets wracked up 40 points with 11 wins and a goal difference of -28, while Hull City, who finished in 18th this campaign, dropped out of the top flight with 34 points, a goal difference of -43 and nine wins. Photo: Tony Marshall