Which Premier League clubs have the hardest run-ins? How Newcastle United, Fulham and West Brom compare in relegation dogfight
With a dozen games left to play, Steve Bruce’s side are deep relegation trouble and a third season in the Championship under Mike Ashley’s tenure is a distinct possibility.
Just three points separate the Magpies in 17th and Fulham, managed by former captain Scott Parker, in 18th, who are unbeaten in five matches.
The Cottagers' upturn in form is a real worry for United but in the words of Steve Bruce, “there are six or seven teams” looking over their shoulder.
All eyes are on each relegation-threatened club’s remaining fixtures – which includes Crystal Palace, Southampton, Burnley, Brighton, Newcastle, Fulham, West Brom and Sheffield United.
So, who has the hardest run-in on paper? We’ve worked out the average league position of United and their rivals’ remaining opponents – and it’s to say, there isn’t much in it.
The Cottagers' upturn in form is a real worry for United but in the words of Steve Bruce, “there are six or seven teams” looking over their shoulder.
5. 17th - Newcastle United - 26 points
Average league position of remaining opponents: 11th. Remaining fixtures: West Brom (A), Aston Villa (H), Brighton (A), Tottenham (H), Burnley (A), West Ham (H), Liverpool (A), Arsenal (H), Leicester City (A), Manchester City (H), Sheffield United (H), Fulham (A). Photo: Pool
6. 18th - Fulham - 23 points
Average league position of remaining opponents: 9th. Remaining fixtures: Tottenham (H), Liverpool (A), Manchester City (H), Leeds (H), Aston Villa (A), Wolves (H), Arsenal (A), Chelsea (A), Burnley (H), Southampton (A), Manchester United (A), Newcastle (H). Photo: Mike Hewitt
7. 19th - West Bromwich Albion - 17 points
Average league position of remaining opponents: 9th. Remaining fixtures: Everton (H), Newcastle (H), Crystal Palace (A), Chelsea (A), Southampton (H), Leicester City (A), Aston Villa (A), Wolves (H), Arsenal (A), Liverpool (H), West Ham (H), Leeds (A). Photo: JULIAN FINNEY
8. 20th - Sheffield United - 11 points
Average league position of remaining opponents: 11th. Remaining fixtures: Aston Villa (H), Southampton (H), Leicester City (A), Leeds (A), Arsenal (H), Wolves (A), Brighton (H), Tottenham (A), Crystal Palace (H), Everton (A), Newcastle (A), Burnley (H). Photo: Shaun Botterill