Mark Lawrenson has been predicting Newcastle’s game against Arsenal this weekend in his latest BBC Sport column.
Once again his prediction makes good reading for those of a black and white persuasion, with the ex-defender backing the team for a win.
Newcastle were impressive during a 1-1 draw against Liverpool last week and are edging closer to safety.
Arsenal have been inconsistent all season and Lawrenson thinks their priorities will lie elsewhere.
He said on the BBC Sport website: “Arsenal’s priority has to be the Europa League now because it’s the only way they are getting Europe next season.
“The Gunners are extremely inconsistent and I just have a feeling Newcastle will come out on top here.
“Part of that is down to the Magpies’ form – they have won two and drawn two of their past four games – but they also have their big guns in attack back and they have made a difference.”
Newcastle have rediscovered themselves in recent weeks. As a result, it would take some seriously unfortunate results for the club to suffer relegation.
Arsenal have thrashed the Magpies twice this season. They won 2-0 in the FA Cup and 3-0 in the Premier League, with both games at the Emirates Stadium.
Newcastle have been a different animal in the last few weeks, however, with Steve Bruce’s team appearing to show some fight.
With Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson now back fit and firing they can be competitive in each game they play.
Joe Willock on loan from Arsenal has also been bang in form and Bruce will be trying to re-sign him in the summer for certain.
One more victory is likely to be enough for the Magpies and supporters will hope Lawrenson’s prediction for the weekend is on the money.
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