Paul Merson is not confident that Newcastle United will avoid relegation this season.
Newcastle United are eager to get back on the pitch and conclude the 2019-20 Premier League campaign. The Magpies are currently 13th in the table with 35 points from 29 games, which places them eight points clear of the relegation zone.
The narrative for several teams can change over the course of nine games, but Newcastle United will be safe. According to Steve Bruce, the team’s new objective is to climb into the top ten.
While the Magpies are focused on earning a top ten finish, Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson is worried that Newcastle United might not have enough in the tank to stay out of the bottom three. Here is what Merson had to say:
"I fear for Newcastle the most because they might struggle without 50,000 unbelievable fans behind them at home.[…]Those fans keep your concentration levels high. They help you. With no crowd, you lose focus. And Newcastle might feel that more than anyone else."
It is true that Newcastle United’s form at St. James’ Park saved their season because of the fervent support from the Toon Army. However, it is also important to note that every game is essentially neutral for every team going forward.
The empty stadiums take away support from home teams, and the intimidation factor will be non-existent for away sides. So, not having fans in the stadium is not something that will impact Newcastle United more than any other club. Teams currently in the bottom six need the backing of their supporters more than any other clubs.
Secondly, the fact that five of Newcastle United’s last nine games are against teams in serious danger of being relegated is great news for the Magpies. After the clash with Sheffield United on June 21st, Newcastle United will go up against Aston Villa, Bournemouth, and West Ham, in that order.
One win from those games, or even against Sheffield United, will be enough for Newcastle United to officially reserve their place in the top flight next season, which could be very interesting if Richard Masters approves the proposed takeover.
Other teams below Newcastle United have difficult schedules that can be described as nightmares. Bournemouth, Brighton, Watford, West Ham and Aston Villa, for example, have final games that primarily consist of top six opposition.
So, that being said, Paul Merson should worry less about Newcastle United and focus more on the aforementioned clubs. Newcastle United will be in the Premier League next season.