‘Up against it’ – Gary Neville’s Champions League prediction as Newcastle sweat
Stuart Jamieson
3 – 4 minutes.
On paper, it seems straight forward enough. Newcastle United have to beat Everton at St James’ Park on Sunday to ensure their place in the Premier League top five and a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Three points in front of the home faithful will be enough after the 1-0 defeat at Arsenal, no matter what any of their rivals do. Manchester City could move two points ahead with a win over Bournemouth on Tuesday night, but with Newcastle’s goal difference being superior to that of Chelsea and Aston Villa, Eddie Howe and Co know their fate is in their own hands.
It’s set to be a thrilling final day of the Premier League season, but two of the five sides competing for the final three Champions League places will be disappointed. Nottingham Forest ensured they are still in the mix with an away win at West Ham . . . and host Chelsea at the City Ground on Sunday.
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has given his predictions for what could happen on a day when there is sure to be plenty of drama, and it’s good news for Newcastle.
Speaking on his podcast, the former Manchester United and England defender said: “That was a really important win for Nottingham Forest. They’re still up against it a little bit and they’ve got a big game coming up next weekend. Obviously Man City still have two games but they’re two difficult games actually.
“Bournemouth are a tasty opposition and then they’ve got Fulham on the final day. City will be flat after losing the cup final. They need to get themselves back up for those games and finish the job off. There’s a lot to play for in the next week and a lot of money at stake.
“At the moment I think Man City will just get in there, I think Newcastle will get in there and I think Aston Villa might just sneak in. I think Forest might just hamper Chelsea next weekend and Aston Villa should win at Old Trafford, everyone is beating Man United at the minute.”
Newcastle are sweating on the fitness of Alexander Isak, with the Swedish striker missing the defeat at Arsenal with a groin issue. Kieran Trippier could be close to a return, while Joelinton is not expected to be involved.
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