At one stage, Newcastle could almost taste Champions League football but after dropping points against Arsenal and Leeds United, Eddie Howe’s side face a nervous end to the campaign as they look to secure a top four finish. Manchester United are behind them on goal difference while Liverpool are also closing in.
Liverpool currently sit four points outside the top four but face Leicester City away on Monday night. A win for Liverpool means Newcastle would qualify for the Champions League should they pick up another two wins in their remaining three games.
A draw for Liverpool would likely mean just one more win for Newcastle providing they can maintain their superior goal difference. A defeat for Liverpool at the King Power Stadium means Newcastle could secure Champions League football as early as Thursday night, providing they beat Brighton & Hove Albion (7:30pm kick-off).
While Newcastle’s recent 2-0 defeat to Arsenal and 2-2 draw at Leeds has made things slightly more nervous for Eddie Howe’s side, their remaining matches at home to Brighton, Leicester City and away to Chelsea leave plenty to be optimistic about.
Newcastle’s two remaining matches at St James’ Park are evening kick-offs. Eddie Howe has taken charge of 11 matches under the lights as United boss and is yet to lose.
After drawing his first two, Howe has won each of his last nine evening matches at St James’ Park. While football is often unpredictable, Newcastle’s evening form certainly provides plenty of hope they can secure a top four finish.
Here’s a look at Newcastle’s previous evening kick-offs at St James’ Park under Eddie Howe...
5. Newcastle United 1-0 Crystal Palace
Miguel Almiron scored Newcastle’s goal of the season with a stunning solo effort and finish to win the game against Crystal Palace. Photo: Ian MacNicol
6. Newcastle United 2-0 Arsenal
Newcastle marked their final match of the 2021-22 season at St James’ Park with an impressive win over Arsenal. A Ben White own goal followed by a late strike from Bruno Guimaraes gave The Magpies a deserved victory with Premier League status secured. Photo: Stu Forster
7. Newcastle United 1-0 Everton
Miguel Almiron continued his fine run of form in front of goal with a stunning edge of the box strike to give Newcastle three points. | Getty Images
8. Newcastle United 0-0 Crystal Palace (3-2 pens)
Nick Pope was the hero after a goalless draw in the Carabao Cup third round at St James’ Park. The goalkeeper saved three penalties to see Newcastle through. Technically a draw but a win as far as the competition in question is concerned. | Getty Images