Newcastle United’s push for an unexpected place in next season’s Champions League may well be on hold as the final international break of the Premier League season takes place - but that has not stopped Magpies supporters dreaming of away days around Europe.
Few had predicted Eddie Howe’s men would be serious contenders for a top four place but the outstanding work of the United boss, his coaching staff and the Magpies players mean they will return to action after the two-week break looking to see off Manchester United and boost their top four hopes with a win against one of their main rivals.
As it stands, Newcastle are one place and two points outside of the Champions League spots, but hold the benefit of two games in-hand on fourth placed Tottenham Hotspur. As many as five other clubs will feel they have a chance to securing a place among European football’s elite next season - but how do their fixtures look during the remainder of the current campaign?
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How do Newcastle United’s remaining Premier League fixtures compare to their rivals for a place in next season’s Champions League? Photo: Naomi Baker
2. 10th: Chelsea (38 points)
Remaining games: Aston Villa (H), Liverpool (H), Wolves (A), Brighton (H), Manchester United (A), Brentford (H), Arsenal (A), Bournemouth (A), Nottingham Forest (H), Manchester City (A), Newcastle United (H) Photo: Getty Images
3. 9th: Fulham (39 points)
Remaining games: Bournemouth (A), West Ham United (H), Everton (A), Leeds United (H), Aston Villa (A), Manchester City (H), Leicester City (H), Southampton (A), Crystal Palace (H), Manchester United (A) Photo: Getty Images
4. 8th: Brentford (42 points)
Remaining games: Brighton (A), Manchester United (A), Newcastle United (H), Wolves (A), Aston Villa (H), Chelsea (A), Nottingham Forest (H), Liverpool (A), West Ham United (H), Tottenham Hotspur (A), Manchester City (H) Photo: Getty Images