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Rafa Benitez’s goal for Newcastle United is still 40 points

By Roy Emanuel

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on March 31, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on March 31, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images) /
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Why that number is a vital focus for Newcastle United.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez face an important test today at Leicester City, continuing their battle for top-flight survival. Currently 12th in the table, the Magpies should feel confident. However, Benitez knows that there is still work to be completed.

40 points is normally the objective for any Premier League side looking to avoid relegation, and Newcastle are no different at this stage of the campaign. Despite a seven-point gap between the Toon and the drop zone, Benitez wants to ensure that they collect 40 points in 2017-18.

Five points from seven matches is certainly not impossible, but the players will have to be at their best and take advantage of good opportunities. A result today at Leicester would be a fantastic boost to the 40-point mark.

A difficult fixture follows against Arsenal at St. James’ Park, especially if the Gunners display the quality that they showcased in their recent Europa League victory versus CSKA Moscow.

The three games after that will be critical, as they present the best chances at accumulating the points that Newcastle desire.

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Away to Everton, at home against West Brom and a visit to Vicarage Road to play Watford can potentially provide the five points for Benitez’s team.

The final two matches

The Toon finish off the Premier League term with two tough encounters, as both Tottenham and Chelsea boast significant talent throughout their line-ups.

Expecting any points from those two matches may be unrealistic, so the Toon Army will hope that safety is already confirmed by the second week of May.

Next: Discussing 2017-18 and beyond with Warren Barton

40 points is the usual total that Premier League clubs require to remain in the first division. Even with some breathing room at the moment, Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez are no different in that regard and will be focused on achieving their goal.

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