John Barnes has backed Manchester United to crush Eddie Howe’s top-four dreams this season. The Red Devils conceded a stoppage-time winner against Arsenal - failing to capitalise on Newcastle United's goalless draw at Crystal Palace.
Toon supporters breathed a sigh of relief as Erik ten Hag's side were set to move above their club with seconds to spare. However, Eddie Nketiah scored at the death to move the Gunners five points clear at the top of the league - and keep Newcastle in third spot.
Few fans or pundits expected the Magpies to pursue a Champions League tilt back in August. Given the poor form of Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, and the relentless form under Howe, the Magpies could sneak in. Doing so would ensure a top-four finish for the first time since 2002-03.
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A whole generation of Newcastle fans have never heard the famous Champions League anthem reverberate around St James’ Park. Ex-Toon winger Barnes, who played five times for the Magpies in Europe's elite competition, is unsure whether his former club will reach the promised land.
The Liverpool legend has insisted Newcastle fans “deserve” success but also tipped Man United to finish higher in the league. He told BonusCodesBets: “Man United will be favourites to finish higher than Newcastle because they have more experience in recent years chasing a team. We'll see what the bookies say because they usually get it right. I'm pleased with the way Newcastle have played, they deserve success and so do the fans.
“Newcastle are chasing Arsenal; everyone is chasing Arsenal at the moment. I don't think they will catch them though. They're a good side that is growing but they need to keep their feet on the ground and say they're happy where they are.
“They should be happy to be in the top six. To even say that not achieving the top four is a failure for Newcastle is the wrong attitude to have. If they win the Carabao Cup, Newcastle could have a really successful season, depending on where they finish in the league as well. Newcastle have not won a trophy for years and I'm sure that's what they will want to do - especially the fans.”
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