It is still going to be incredibly difficult for Newcastle to secure a top-four finish, but their win over Manchester United on Sunday has put them in an excellent position with 11 games left to play. Eddie Howe has done an outstanding job with his squad, and the team looks ready for whatever challenge comes next.
Earlier in the year, Newcastle had a few setbacks, dropping points against teams in the lower half of the table and losing the Carabao Cup final at the end of February. After being defeated by Manchester City at the start of March, they were eight points behind United in third and had not won a league game in five matches. Howe had to find a way to get his team back on track, and he has achieved that with three consecutive victories.
The Magpies now have options, something they have not had in a long time. Alexander Isak was injured for a large part of the season, but is now fully fit and Howe has to decide who to play up front. Isak started against Manchester United and put in an excellent performance, helping to create the first goal with his pressing and work-rate. Wilson came off the bench to score the second goal and secure the points. It is clear Howe trusts his squad, as he was about to make three changes just before Willock broke the deadlock.
Newcastle have become a tough team to beat, with the best defensive record in the Premier League. They have also developed game-changers on the bench, which is something they have lacked for some time. Trippier kept Rashford quiet and Botman made a couple of last-ditch tackles when United got through.
The Magpies will now travel to West Ham, Brentford and Aston Villa with confidence. They need to return to St James’ Park in a strong position for their next home game against Tottenham on 23 April. Spurs have reacted to Antonio Conte’s departure in unknown ways, and will face Everton on Monday. Manchester United will look to bounce back quickly with two home games in the next six days.
Ten Hag’s side have lost some form, with only three wins from their past nine league games, but they are still in a good situation. Arsenal have responded to their loss to Manchester City in February by winning seven league games in a row, and will need to keep going if they want to stay ahead of City. The title race and battle for relegation are both poised and could go down to the wire.