Newcastle United duo set to be assessed ahead of Southampton as eight players ruled out & two doubts

Newcastle United are aiming to make it three wins in seven days when Southampton visit St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon (kick-off 2pm).

Eddie Howe’s side are in the driving seat for Champions League qualification having won seven of their last eight games, including back-to-back wins against Tottenham Hotspur and Everton.

As a result, the Magpies have opened up an eight-gap advantage over fifth place Spurs, and still have a game in-hand left to play. On current projection, Howe’s men will finish on 73 points.

United’s Champions League dream looks set to become a reality very soon - but Howe is refusing to look too far ahead, and knows his team can’t slip up during the remaining six games.

And that starts against relegation-threatened Southampton this weekend. Ruben Selles’ side are in a desperate situation after Thursday’s defeat to Bournemouth left them six points from safety.

With this game being each club’s second game in three days, several players will be assessed. Some have already been ruled out, while a couple of others are doubts. Here’s the latest Newcastle and Southampton team news.

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