The Magpies are third after beating Ipswich at home, but there is still only two points separating third and sixth
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes the race for Champions League qualification will be decided on the final day of the season. Howe made his thoughts clear after his side’s commanding 3-0 victory over Ipswich Town at St James’ Park on Saturday.
The Magpies capitalised on Ipswich being reduced to 10 men and the team were ablestrolled to victory, with goals from Alexander Isak, Dan Burn, and young forward William Osula sealing the win.
The result pushed Newcastle up to third in the Premier League standings, strengthening their position in the hunt for the much-sought-after top-five finish.
“It will go down to the wire,” said Howe to reporters after the game. “The important thing today was that we bounced back from last week. We have been very consistent, and now we have four huge games.”
Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, Chelsea and Aston Villa are all within touching distance of the Magpies and will be looking to punish any slip-ups. Only two points separate the Toons in third and Nottingham Forest – who have a game in hand – in sixth. A win for Forest against Brentford at home on Thursday would see them replace Newcastle in third place.
“They do feel like cup finals,” added Howe regarding the club’s remaining fixtures. “With four games to go, you’re ticking down. We have put ourselves back into a strong position, but we know it can change quickly.”
