It wasn’t quite Liverpool levels of performance, but it didn’t have to be. After Newcastle United climbed their Mount Everest on March 16 at Wembley, points was all that mattered at St James’ Park. And three were claimed to put the Magpies back up to fifth in the Premier League table.
As things stand, if they finish there, that will secure a return to Champions League football, after missing out on Europe altogether last season. Of course, this time around that’s impossible, with the Carabao Cup win ensuring the Magpies have already secured a spot in the UEFA Conference League for next season - although, a club of United’s ambition would not be satisfied by a slot in Europe’s third tier competition.
Newcastle United claimed all three points on Wednesday evening thanks to a remarkable Sandro Tonali winner in the second half. Newcastle’s ‘midfield maestro, from Milano’ cracked in from what seemed like an impossible angle to add to Alexander Isak’s earlier strike to claim a 2-1 win. The result sees them keep pace with the Champions League-chasing pack, with the potential to grasp the opportunity with both hands, given Eddie Howe’s men have a game in hand on their rivals.
While Newcastle fans the region over are talking of ‘THE CHAMPIONS’ theme song returning to St James’ Park speakers, what does AI tool Grok think of the Magpies’ chances. We asked it - and here’s where it thinks Newcastle, and their rivals, will finish.
5. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 16th
Wolves’ 2024/25 season has seen them climb from relegation fears, but losing stars like Matheus Cunha could hurt. A lower mid-table finish is likely unless they reinvest wisely. | Wolves via Getty Images
6. Fulham - 15th
Fulham’s stability under Marco Silva ensures a mid-table finish. Their 2024/25 form suggests they can compete but lack the firepower for a European push. | Getty Images
7. Bournemouth - 14th
Bournemouth’s 2024/25 season has been impressive, with their press and Antoine Semenyo’s form earning praise. A ninth-place finish is possible, but maintaining that level with key departures will be tough. | Getty Images
8. Crystal Palace - 13th
Palace’s strong 2024/25 under Oliver Glasner, driven by Jean-Philippe Mateta’s 33 goals over two seasons, suggests a stable mid-table finish. Their attacking flair could push them higher, but depth issues may cap their ceiling. | Getty Images