Former Newcastle United and Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has had his say on who he thinks will finish in the coveted Champions League spots this season.
As things stand, Newcastle have a one point lead over Liverpool in the top-four race and are sitting two places above the Merseyside team. The Magpies also have a game in hand, although that’s a tricky game against Brighton on Thursday night.
Liverpool have won seven games in a row and are in superb form while Newcastle dropped five points in their last two games, so things are getting very close.
Benitez was asked to pick who would finish in the top four, Newcastle or Liverpool
Football Daily posted a Tweet with Rafa Benitez discussing which of the two clubs he thought would finish in the top four. When asked his opinion, Benitez was rather diplomatic, but did seem to hint that he was leaning a particular way, saying: “It’s massive for both. Obviously, now Newcastle have the advantage but you never know.
“Newcastle United have the belief, they have the intensity and the balance that is necessary to get some points and stay there.
“Can they stay there for a while? We will see. Obviously this year two or three teams were not at the level they were expected, but now they are there they have the potential to stay there and I will be delighted.”
It sounds like Benitez expects Newcastle to hang on and also backs them to continue to be in the mix next season and beyond too.
Fans are starting to get nervy but it’s not over yet
While fans are starting to get a bit nervy due to the contrast in form between the two sides, Newcastle still hold the advantage with the points and game in hand. In fact, there’s even a scenario where Newcastle could qualify for the Champions League this weekend before they face Leicester on Monday.
If Newcastle beat Brighton on Thursday and Aston Villa manage to defeat Liverpool on Saturday, then the Magpies can’t be caught by Brighton or Liverpool.
Of course the Brighton game is a tricky one for Newcastle as games between the two more often than not end in a draw, however Newcastle did beat the Seagulls at St James’ Park last season, and Newcastle haven’t lost a single night-time game under Eddie Howe, so the omens are good there.
Aston Villa could beat Liverpool if they turn up, they’re much improved under Unai Emery but have a tendency to shut down in big games, so we’ll have to see.
I am buoyed by Rafa Benitez’ quiet confidence, so I’m going to try and stay positive.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
