NEWCASTLE, England — As the Premier League nears its dramatic conclusion, Newcastle United prepares to host Everton this Sunday, aiming to secure their place in next season’s Champions League. The Magpies currently sit fourth in the league, tied on points with Liverpool and Manchester City in fifth and sixth, respectively. A victory at St. James' Park will guarantee their return to UEFA’s elite tournament.
With a win, Newcastle could solidify their top four finish for the second time in three seasons, provided there is no miracle goal difference swing from Aston Villa. Last year, the Magpies finished fourth with head coach Eddie Howe potentially making history as the fifth Englishman to achieve multiple top-four finishes in the Premier League.
Newcastle’s recent form at home has been formidable, claiming victory in their last six league matches at St. James’ Park. The club last achieved seven consecutive home wins between September and December 2023. To add to their confidence, Newcastle has historically performed well in their final league games, winning eight of the last ten, with only one draw and one loss during that stretch.
“We know the stakes are high, but the atmosphere at St. James’ will be electric, and we believe we can get the job done,” said Howe during a recent press conference.
Everton, on the other hand, comes into the match with a different storyline. Currently 13th in the league, they’d be looking to end the season on a high note. After a promising run of form that saw them win their last two games, including a 2-0 victory over Southampton, the Toffees are eager to finish with three straight wins for the first time since the 1988-89 season.
“Ending the season strongly is important for this group. We want to build momentum going into next season,” said Everton’s manager David Moyes.
Newcastle’s injury list has forced some tactical adjustments, with key players such as Lewis Hall, Matt Targett and Joelinton potentially missing out. However, Kieran Trippier may return, strengthening the defense. The fitness of star striker Alexander Isak remains doubtful; he has missed recent matches due to injury but is reportedly making good progress.
For Everton, injuries to Séamus Coleman and Jarrad Branthwaite limit options. Abdoulaye Doucouré will play his final game for the club before his contract expires, making the match even more significant for him and the Toffees.
Historically, Newcastle has fared well against Everton, with a record of three wins and one draw in their last four home matches against the Merseysiders. However, the Toffees have been a thorn in Newcastle’s side in the past, with six wins in nine meetings between 2011 and 2019.
In betting terms, Newcastle holds a significant advantage, with the Opta supercomputer giving them a 67.5% chance of winning. Everton’s chances sit at just 14.7%. 129the Magpies are rated strong favorites for a top-five finish at 82.7%.
As the final match of the Premier League season approaches, the stakes could not be higher for Newcastle United. With Champions League qualification hanging in the balance, the fierce rivalry on the pitch promises to deliver an exciting finale.
