Where Newcastle United rank in xG table compared to Chelsea, Man Utd, Liverpool and Spurs should worry Eddie Howe

A modern phenomenon, xG, is used by stat geeks and data boffins to calculate the likelihood of a goal. While some hold “expected goals” up as the holy grail, others view it as an arbitrary waste of time, with little relevance compared to shots, possession and, ultimately, the result at the full-time whistle.

But the stat does offer an insight in whether Newcastle are under or overperforming this season. Injuries have, in truth, been the biggest detriment to the Magpies’ campaign.

Eddie Howe has watched on as a wave of setbacks flood his treatment table - having a negative effect on Newcastle’s domestic and European ambitions in the process. The Magpies are still fighting for a Europa League spot but this can still be regarded as a “what could have been” campaign.

Pundits and fans alike have noticed a drop-off in performances this season. But how much is that the case? Are Newcastle punching above their weight? or do they deserve to be higher?

NewcastleWorld has profiled where Howe’s men rank in the xG table. Other clubs in the Premier League also offer intruige...