Pundit issues ‘unbelievable’ Newcastle United claim – ‘I can’t believe I’m saying this’
Anything less than Champions League qualification would go down as a failure for Newcastle United after their impressive start to the season.
That’s according to former Hibernian striker Tam McManus, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Magpies’ push for a top-four finish.
Newcastle have only lost one of their 17 games of the season, leaving the club sat third in the Premier League.
After winning six straight league games, Eddie Howe’s side played out a frustrating 0-0 draw with Leeds United on Saturday (31 December), missing the chance to gain ground on second-placed Manchester City, who drew with Everton on the same day.
After such a positive start to the season, McManus insists the Magpies will have failed if they aren’t playing Champions League football next season.
“Newcastle are still third and have only lost one game in all competitions this season, I can’t believe I’m saying this,” McManus told Football Insider‘s Ben Wild.
“We knew they would improve this season but no one saw this coming, it’s unbelievable. I think they have to go for the top four now.
“They have been there for what seems like ages because of the World Cup break, they have a great chance as well.
“Arsenal and Man City will finish first and second this season, I’m sure of that, I just don’t know which way round they will finish.
“I really think that third spot is up for grabs. Tottenham and Chelsea keep dropping points but Man United and Liverpool look like they are sorting themselves out.
“So I think that’s the battle. Newcastle were unlucky to lose to Liverpool and got a good draw with Man United, both of those games were away too.
“You would back Newcastle to beat anyone at home now so I really think it would be disappointing if they somehow didn’t finish in the top four.
“It’s weird. If I had said this time last year that Newcastle would be disappointed if they don’t get into the Champions League this season you would think I’m mad.
“I do think it’s a bit of a failure if they don’t make it.”
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