Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has told his players to aim for a maximum haul of points from the remaining three Premier League fixtures.
Howe believes his team can stay in control of their own destiny despite letting two points slip at Leeds in Saturday's 2-2 draw. Victories against Brighton and Leicester would secure Champions League football for the first time since 2003 but Howe has reminded his players of the high standards he sets.
Howe said: "We're after nine points. That's how you have to be.
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"We know we have difficult fixtures. We look forward to Brighton who are having a really good season themselves, that will be a really good game."
Newcastle are guaranteed a place in at least the Europa League and can finish no lower than sixth in the Premier League table. In a season in which United have also reached the Carabao Cup final, Howe knows his squad have made great strides.
Howe said on BBC Sport: "At the start of the season you'd have snapped somebody's arm off for that opportunity. It's in our hands and we are looking forward to the challenge."
