The Magpies' 1-0 win over Leeds United saw them head into the competition's mini-break with just a one-point gap stopping them from escaping the relegation zone, and their game in hand over 17th place Norwich City could well see them do just that.
Eddie Howe's side return to action on 8th February, when they host Everton at St James' Park. When the two sides last played each other, back in January 2021, Newcastle secured an important 2-0 win at Goodison Park, with Callum Wilson scoring both goals as the side put a halt to their five-match losing run in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has backed new signing Kieran Trippier to go on to become the club's future captain, and said: “I thought he was absolutely magnificent going up against Jack Harrison, whose confidence was really high after a hat-trick.
“He never gave them a kick. His positioning throughout the game, I thought, was superb, both offensively and defensively. Wherever he went, if he got behind him, he blocked him, one v one, it wasn’t a problem. There was just no way past him. Quality going forward. Everything about his game was superb.
“For me, he’s future captain material for Newcastle United. I have no doubt that I think he’ll captain Newcastle.”
Take a look at today's biggest stories from the Premier League, as the January transfer window speculation amid the winter break continues:
1. Reds keeping tabs on Dybala
Reports from Italy have linked with Liverpool and Inter with a move for Juventus forward Paulo Dybala. The Argentina international is said to be being followed "attentively" by the Reds, whose future in Turin continues to look uncertain. (TuttoMercato)
Photo: ISABELLA BONOTTO
2. Clarets close to landing Orsic
Burnley are said have agreed a £7m deal for Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Mislav Orsic, as they look to boost their chances in the relegation battle. Juventus' Aaron Ramsey is also said to be high on their wish list. (Guardian)
Photo: Jurij Kodrun
3. Robinson lauds Villa progress
Ex-football Paul Robinson has lauded Aston Villa's showing in the January transfer window, branding their dealings 'incredible', given that they were in the Championship a couple of seasons ago. After landing Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne, they're now chasing Juventus' Rodrigo Betancur. (Football Insider)
Photo: Tullio M. Puglia
4. Hornets could re-sign Young
Watford have been tipped to swoop for their former star Ashley Young, who is said to be surplus to requirements at Aston Villa. Norwich City are also said to hold an interest in the versatile veteran, who racked up 39 caps for England during his senior international career. (Team Talk)
Photo: Ash Donelon