TalkSPORT pundit forecasts Newcastle United relegation 'panic' as Fulham cut gap

Scott Parker’s men cut the gap between themselves and the Magpies to seven points with a win over Everton at the weekend, and still have a game in hand on the Toon Army.

Matters are made even more precarious for Steve Bruce’s side by the fact that the Cottagers play fellow struggles Burnley, Sheffield United, and Crystal Palace in their next three games.

And Murphy feels that a positive run of form at this crucial juncture in the season could pile the pressure on Newcastle.

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “In isolation, this particular game against Chelsea wouldn’t worry me so much.

"But the lack of quality that Newcastle have, in attacking areas especially when Wilson’s not there, is the biggest worry.

"Whereas, you look at Fulham, who are trying to chase them down – they seem to be playing with more confidence, and now have found a guy [Josh Maja], they hope, who can get the goals. If he can, great. It gives Fulham a fighting chance.

"They’ve got three big games coming up, and Newcastle will then feel the pressure.

"If Fulham in the next three games can win two of them against teams around them, then Newcastle will start having a little panic on.

"Right now, they’re still in a reasonably comfortable position because there is a big gap, but Wilson is a big blow.”

Newcastle’s next three matches are against Manchester United, Wolves, and West Brom.

The Magpies also face Fulham on the final day of the season.