Ten out of 11 ain’t bad, right?
Newcastle United recorded their 10th victory in 11 in all competitions on Saturday, with a comprehensive 3-1 win at Southampton.
An early Jan Bednarek header did have some jittering, but an Alexander Isak double and a quite wonderfully direct and driving goal from man of the match Sandro Tonali ensured all three points were safe on the south coast for the Magpies.
The result, coupled with others at the weekend, meant Eddie Howe’s men now occupy fifth place in the top flight table - and, as things stand, that looks likely to be enough to secure a Champions League slot for next season.
But what does the result really mean for the Magpies’ season as a whole? We asked AI tool ‘Grok’ where each team would finish come May this campaign - and the results, at least for some, may well surprise.
1. Sunderland - 20th
Their return to the Premier League is likely to be brief. Promoted teams have historically struggled (e.g., Southampton’s 2024/25 relegation), and Sunderland’s squad may lack the quality to survive. | Getty Images
2. Burnley - 19th
Burnley’s promotion brings them back, but their 2023/24 relegation exposed defensive frailties. Simulations predict all promoted sides will struggle, and Burnley’s lack of top-tier depth could see them drop. | Getty Images
3. Leeds United - 18th
Leeds return to the Premier League for 2025/26, but data suggests promoted sides struggle, with all three projected to go down. Their attacking style may not translate against stronger opposition, leading to relegation. | Getty Images
4. Brentford - 17th
Brentford’s established status under Thomas Frank is a strength, but their reliance on key players like Bryan Mbeumo (if he stays) and a potential Frank departure to a bigger club could destabilize them. A 17th-place finish reflects caution. | Getty Images