Newcastle United are in pole position to qualify for some form of European competition for just the fourth time since Bobby Robson’s exit in 2004. The Magpies currently sit sixth in the Premier League table ahead of crunch games against Manchester United and Brentford in the final run-in.
Victories in both games will ensure that Newcastle pip the Red Devils and Chelsea to a top-six spot, although fans will still need to keep an eye on the second consecutive all Manchester FA Cup final, which could hand Erik ten Hag’s side a Europa League lifeline.
The top six race is firmly in the balance and the finest of margins, including refereeing decisions, could have a profound effect on the club’s final finish. A controversial VAR call, all but killed Newcastle’s hopes of progressing in Europe, but how has it influenced their Premier League ranking so far? Here is the latest updated Premier League table and how it would look without VAR.
17. Aston Villa
Points without VAR: 75 (Difference +7) | Getty Images
18. Liverpool
Points without VAR: 76 (Difference -3) | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
19. Arsenal
Points without VAR: 85 (Difference -1) | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
20. Manchester City
Points without VAR: 91 (Difference +3) | Getty Images