Things are getting nervy for Newcastle United in their attempts to qualify for the Champions League.
Eddie Howe’s side drew 2-2 with Leeds on Saturday to leave the door slightly ajar for a resurgent Liverpool as they look to hunt both Newcastle and Manchester United down.
Now, it’s clearly a positive that the Magpies have their destiny in their own hands but not getting three points at Elland Road was a blow for the Champions League dream.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds are now only four points the Toon Army with three games to play and Newcastle still have to meet Brighton, Leicester and Chelsea.
Still, one former player remains positive.
Sebastian Bassong backs Newcastle for the top four
On punditry duty for the BBC during the dramatic draw at Elland Road, ex-Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong gave his verdict on the club’s chances of making it back into Europe’s elite club competition.
Summarising the crazy game immediately after the full-time whistle, Bassong said (via BBC Sport): “A point is OK for Leeds. Obviously, they would have liked all three but they couldn’t afford to lose.
“I think Newcastle have got enough to stay in the top four but the pressure is starting to heat up.”
It all comes down to Brighton on Thursday
While the game on Thursday will not mathematically decide Newcastle’s fate, it feels the biggest test left.
Brighton might have been thrashed by Everton recently but are a very dangerous opponent and the blow of them coming to St James’ Park under the floodlights and winning would be hard to recover from.
A midweek evening kick-off, it should be a fervent atmosphere on Tyneside.
Newcastle need to channel that, as they have done all season.
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