Frank Christian
Newcastle United faces a crucial challenge on May 25 when they welcome Everton to St James’s Park, with their Champions League aspirations hanging in the balance.
The scenario for the Magpies is straightforward: securing a victory ensures a top-five placement and a spot in the next UEFA Champions League. However, failing to win could allow teams like Chelsea, Aston Villa, or Nottingham Forest to overtake Eddie Howe’s squad.
Paul Merson has shared his insights as the final day approaches, indicating that Newcastle is treading on precarious ground.
In a conversation with Sportskeeda, the ex-Arsenal and England star remarked, “Newcastle faces a tough match against Everton, a team that never gives up. Regardless of their season, Everton consistently puts up a fight against their rivals.”
This season, Newcastle has competed in 47 matches across various tournaments, achieving 28 victories, 7 draws, and 12 losses.
Entering this match, they are coming off a close 1-0 defeat against Arsenal, marking their second loss in the last ten games.
This outcome has put them in a precarious position in a competitive race where every point counts. Noting that striker Alexander Isak’s fitness is uncertain, Merson stated, “If Isak isn’t available, it becomes significantly more challenging for Newcastle.”
When it comes to the potential outcomes, a victory would guarantee Newcastle’s progress. A draw would require Nottingham Forest and Chelsea to also finish level, as well as Aston Villa to lose points against Manchester United.
If Newcastle were to lose, they would need both Chelsea and Villa to drop their matches, while also safeguarding their superior goal difference over Chelsea, which currently stands at +2.
Merson was clear in his opinion: “A draw might suffice for Newcastle’s Champions League aspirations, but I doubt they’d want to leave their fate to chance.” He anticipates a narrow result: “Newcastle 1, Everton 0.”
Eddie Howe expresses concerns over missing Champions League qualification
Eddie Howe has acknowledged that not qualifying for the Champions League would be a significant disappointment for Newcastle United.
“Missing out would be really difficult to accept,” Howe stated prior to the matchup with Everton.
“In that moment, it would feel like a major letdown since we’ve been battling for two-thirds of the season.”
Newcastle, currently tied on 66 points with Chelsea and Aston Villa, knows a win is crucial to remain in control. “We understand what we need to do and aim to achieve,” Howe added.
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