Fulham twice blew the opportunity to jump out of the bottom three with defeats against Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Adama Traore’s injury-time winner on Friday night at Craven Cottage was cheered on Tyneside as Steve Bruce’s side headed to Turf Moor.
Goals from Jacob Murphy and Allan Saint-Maximin decided a nervy encounter for the Magpies, who increased their lead over the 18th place Cottagers to six points.
However, as much as things look a lot brighter for United, it isn’t over yet.
West Brom are showing signs of improvement, while Brighton & Hove Albion and Burnley are far from out of danger.
Here’s how it’s being tipped to play out in the eyes of data analysts FiveThirtyEight.
9. Everton - 57 points (GD0)
Not sure how many people predicted Everton to finish below Arsenal this season but that’s the verdict of FiveThirtyEight. Current points tally: 48. Photo: Clive Brunskill
10. Aston Villa - 54 points (GD+9)
A top-half finish is predicted for Dean Smith’s side, almost one year on since they stayed in the Premier League on the final day of last season. Current points tally: 44. Photo: CLIVE BRUNSKILL
11. Leeds United - 54 points (GD-2)
Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds are tipped to miss out on the top 10 on goal difference, which still represents an excellent return for the newly-promoted side. Current points tally: 45. Photo: Gareth Copley
12. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 47 points
Wolves had aspirations of finishing higher this campaign but Nuno Espirito Santo’s men will regroup and go again next season. Current points tally: 38. Photo: Alex Pantling