Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sat 23 May 2026 13:00, UK

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Newcastle United retain a chance of finishing above Sunderland on the Premier League’s final day on Sunday but they will need a favour.

It has been a hugely frustrating season for the Magpies, who currently sit 11th in the league after a slight recovery in recent weeks.

Five consecutive losses in March and April saw Newcastle knocked out of every cup competition, while falling out of the race for any level of European football.

Eddie Howe has retained the support of decision-makers at St James’ Park, however, with this summer set to be a hugely important one.

Newcastle’s form has seen them go three games unbeaten in the Premier League, and a final win on Sunday could go a small way to salvaging a terrible season.

How Newcastle United finish above Sunderland

Football Insider exclusively revealed this week that Aston Villa are targeting Will Osula this summer amid his strong end to the season.

The 22-year-old was injured for much of the season and only started playing regularly in March, but he has now scored six goals in his last eight Premier League appearances.

Newcastle have the striker under contract until 2029 and will be confident that he can be convinced to stay, but they run the risk of losing such talent all the while they are not playing European football.

Anthony Gordon is set to leave to join Bayern Munich this summer, and interest is mounting in the likes of Sandro Tonali.

Any chance of qualifying for Europe was extinguished by Chelsea’s win over Tottenham on Tuesday, which has left eighth place just out of Newcastle’s reach.

The Blues can still do Howe’s side a favour by beating or drawing with Sunderland on Sunday, however, allowing the Magpies to finish above their fierce rivals with a win at Fulham.

The Black Cats have done the double over Newcastle this season, but there will be at least some pride in finishing above Regis Le Bris’ side, considering how each team’s season has been perceived.

Supercomputer predicts bragging rights for Newcastle

Opta‘s supercomputer has predicted a difficult day for Sunderland against Chelsea, handing the visitors a 47 per cent chance of victory.

The Blues have won just one of their last eight Premier League games, but will be keen to give themselves a chance of European qualification on the final day, as will Sunderland.

Newcastle have been given a 42 per cent chance of winning at Fulham, who may well be saying goodbye to manager Marco Silva.

The Portuguese boss is yet to sign a new contract at Craven Cottage, and is expected to make a decision in the coming days.