Newcastle United will go into this weekend's clash against bottom-of-the-league Southampton feeling arguably better than they have done all season long.
Back-to-back 6-1 and 4-1 wins over Tottenham and Everton suggest that Eddie Howe's side are in no mood to play around when it comes to securing their spot in the Champions League next season.
Meanwhile, Southampton are winless in their last eight and are set to be hit for six against a ferocious Magpies side who look like they can't stop scoring goals in recent games.
READ MORE: Newcastle get exciting £83m glimpse as Alexander Isak shows his true colours with selfless acts
Pundits from across the media have been giving their predictions ahead of the weekend's action and ChronicleLive has rounded them up for you.
Chris Sutton
Sutton wrote in his weekly predictions for BBC Sport: "This is the 'Alan Shearer derby' between two of his old clubs and there is only going to be one winner.
"Southampton were a disgrace on Thursday, bearing mind they were at home and needed to win the game. I thought their performance was gutless and they offered so little in attack.
"The position Saints are in, I was expecting them to play with desperation and throw everything they could at Bournemouth.
"Instead, they looked like a team who had already been relegated. How on earth they got a point against Arsenal last week, I really don't know.
"Newcastle, meanwhile, are just absolutely flying. They have everything they need to finish the season strongly and secure a top-four finish - I think they will wipe the floor with Southampton for starters.
"Chris Sutton's prediction: 5-0."
Paul Merson
Merson wrote for SportsKeeda: "Newcastle United haven't gone around and thrown money even though they've got rich owners. They brought in an excellent manager and made some excellent signings. Fair play to them, they've done a great job by being judicious with their resources.
"The Champions League will be a better place with them and their fans. As long as they have their eye on the ball, they will blow Southampton away.
"The Magpies did go through a dip in form but have now won seven out of their last eight games. Southampton don't stand a chance against this high-flying Newcastle team.
"Prediction: Newcastle 3-0 Southampton."
Mark Lawrenson
Lawrenson wrote for PaddyPower: "I’ll go for Newcastle, they’ve got the bit between their teeth. They had a little set back and they’re back on it again.
"They will just keep pushing until the end of the season and the goals are coming from all over the place at the moment. That Tottenham result was outstanding.
"Newcastle 2-0 Southampton."
READ NEXT:
Eddie Howe can unleash Wilson and Isak Newcastle goal partnership as 'fine margins' blown away
When can Newcastle United qualify for the Champions League as Eddie Howe avoids Europe talk?
Kieran Trippier gives dressing room insight to Newcastle United's Champions League strategy
Newcastle notes: Bobby Robson feat now surpassed and United's perfect response to Everton fireworks
Gordon delivered confident response during lengthy Howe chat before hostile Everton return
