Newcastle United will need to write their own destiny as they aim to avoid relegation, but every team needs a bit of luck from the misfortune of other clubs along the way.
Newcastle United are only nine points shy of reaching 40 points, which is traditionally the magic number for avoiding relegation in the Premier League. Looking at the current point totals among the bottom three, it does not look like any of those teams will come close to reaching 40 points, so that alone is good news for the Magpies.
Steve Bruce has this team in a good place at this stage in the season, and two positive results against Arsenal and Crystal Palace over the next two weekends would be massive for Newcastle United. The Magpies will be focused on their own performances to maintain their Premier League status, but negative results from other clubs in the bottom half of the table will also play a role in determining when Bruce’s men can start to celebrate.
That being said, here are eight results from around the league that would help Newcastle United achieve survival sooner rather than later. The results included in this article cover fixtures between February 15th and February 24th (two matchweeks).
February 15th
Southampton vs. Burnley
- The best outcome here would be a draw. Both teams are level on points with Newcastle United, so a draw would at least keep these teams within reach for the Magpies to leapfrog in the table if they win in London this weekend, or they could stay on level terms for one more week if the Toon only steal a point at the Emirates.
February 16th
Aston Villa vs. Tottenham
- The best outcome here would be a win for Tottenham. Aston Villa are 17th in the table and are only six points away from reaching Newcastle United. The Villans are better than their record indicates, but inconsistency has hurt them this season. Newcastle United need Aston Villa to struggle.