Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes Newcastle United will challenge the Premier League's elite for years to come even if they do miss out on a top four spot this term.
In what has been an incredible 12 months for the Magpies, Newcastle have gone from relegation favourites to Champions League contenders, with Eddie Howe's side playing some of the best football Tyneside has ever seen.
Newcastle are flying right now. Should they manage to add one or two quality signings in January, a top four challenge is well within the clubs grasp.
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It seems remarkable to think that this time last year, Newcastle were in the midst of a relegation battle. A 1-0 win over Burnley back in December 2021 proved the catalyst to turnaround the clubs fortunes on the pitch, with Newcastle eventually going on to secure Premier League survival with ease.
The impact of Howe, coupled with the excellent recruitment at the start of this year cannot be understated in helping turn Newcastle into Champions League contenders.
And speaking on Sky Sports News, Merson hailed every facet of Newcastle, claiming they will not be going away any time soon.
"I've been so impressed with what they've done, the way they've done it," said Merson.
"You know, we say they've got all the money in the world, they're going to do this, this and this. They've bought so well, so well.
"They've got a brilliant manager in Eddie Howe, and I just think all the players have been eight and nine out of 10 so far. They've got to perform and carry that on.
"If they get in the top four, I just said to the lads, would you take the League Cup win or fourth in the Premier League? You know you haven't won a trophy for a long time. I wonder what they'll do.
"For me, I would take the League Cup because I don't think they are going away this Newcastle side.
"I don't think they're one hit wonders where if they don't do it this year they'll miss the boat, I think Newcastle will be around for a long time."
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