Patrick Vieira’s classy view on Newcastle United as Crystal Palace boss makes big European claim

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira believes Newcastle United can challenge the European places this summer.

The Magpies welcome Vieira’s side to St James’ Park on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) after suffering a heartbreaking defeat at Liverpool in midweek.

Having taken the lead through debutant Alexander Isak, United slipped to defeat after an equaliser from Roberto Firmino and a last-gasp winner from Fabio Carvalho.

Newcastle currently sit 12th in the table, one point and one place above Palace, and Vieira has tipped Eddie Howe’s side for European contention following a club-record arrival of Isak.

Patrick Vieira on Newcastle United

“Newcastle, with new owners, is good for the Premier League,” Vieira said. “It’s good for the city of Newcastle. It’s good for Newcastle United Football Club.

“When you spend that kind of money on one player (Isak), you will improve your team. He’s a quality player, there is no doubt about it.

“They’ve built a team that can be really competitive with Isak and players with Premier League experience.

“Of course, they have a team that can fight for European positions.”

Vieira was asked about Howe’s comments this morning after the 44-year-old claimed English clubs “will put their price up” for Newcastle.

“I think obviously you change when you have that power to spend money,” the former Arsenal midfielder said.

“Sometimes, you will have to pay over the price to get that player but that is just the way it is in the game today.

“They are creative enough to find those players to build a team.”