Loss to Saints wouldn’t be so bad – Barnes

FORMER Newcastle midfielder John Barnes feels this afternoon’s crunch clash with Southampton is not season-defining, writes SEAN McCORMICK.

The Magpies sit just two points above the relegation zone heading into the game and are one point above their opponents.

Defeat could well leave Newcastle in the bottom three heading into a 21-day period without a game and many fans feel the visit of the Saints could well make or break United’s season.

However, Barnes feels defeat would not be as catastrophic as people may think as he believes Newcastle are capable of beating some of the bigger teams.

Speaking to The Chronicle on behalf of Bonus Bets, Barnes said: “I don’t think it will define them because Newcastle are capable of getting results against anyone.

“I think other teams down there will have to beat those around them because they are no capable of beating the others.

“Yes, you want to pick up points against teams around you but you could see with Newcastle beating Manchester United they have enough to take points off the bigger teams as well.

“You can write off the Liverpool result.

They were playing away, you would probably expect them to lose - but this is a game where they will feel they have to win and if they win it then it builds the positive atmosphere.

“If they don’t win, yes they are in a relegation fight but I don’t think it is as ‘must-win’ as it is for other teams down there.”

After a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, Newcastle will be keen to bounce back with a win in front of their home supporters.

Last time the Magpies turned out at St James’ Park they beat second-placed Manchester United and Barnes is confident they will make it two wins on the bounce on Tyneside. “I think they will win,” Barnes

(below) added. “Southampton have always flattered to deceive. They have decent players but they are struggling.

“I don’t think there will be many goals in it.

“I don’t think Newcastle are going to go out there and score three or four goals but I expect them to go back to basics in terms of keeping a clean sheet.

“I think they will nick it by the odd goal.”