Key games that could determine The Magpies’ European fate

NEWCASTLE United are among a cluster of clubs battling for European football in the Premier League.

The Magpies have a mix of winnable and tough fixtures during the final run-in. Here’s a look at eight key dates in Newcastle’s race for a European spot:

Saturday, March 30

Newcastle host West Ham United at the end of the month, with the Hammers currently two points ahead of the Magpies. Eddie Howe will hope to use the St James’ Park crowd to his side’s advantage.

Meanwhile, Wolves, who are two points behind Newcastle, will head to Aston Villa in a tough away clash. The following day, Brighton travel to Anfield and take on league leaders Liverpool, which could also boost Newcastle’s hopes.

Saturday, April 6

Newcastle have improved their away record in recent weeks and will be focused on earning three points against Fulham at Craven Cottage. It may not be the sternest test from a Newcastle perspective, but a positive result could still prove vital.

That’s because Wolves are set to host West Ham at Molineux, while Brighton face another tough assignment against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

On Sunday, Manchester United could do further harm to their Champions League hopes as they meet Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Saturday, April 13

Another key date for the diary as Tottenham Hotspur, who are 10 points clear of Newcastle, travel to St James’ Park.

Not only is it a chance for Howe’s team to record a statement result against Spurs, but it also kick-starts a tough run of games for Ange Postecoglou’s side that could drag them closer to the Magpies.

Saturday, April 20

The challenges keep coming for Newcastle, who will duel with Manchester United at Old Trafford. Only four points currently separate the two sides and an impressive away display could put the Magpies in a strong position, heading into the final few league games.

Elsewhere, Spurs will be hosting Manchester City and Wolves take on Arsenal at Molineux.

Saturday, April 27

The following week will offer Newcastle a possible respite as they welcome Sheffield United to St James’ Park. The reverse fixture saw Newcastle record a remarkable 8-0 away win and the Blades could already be relegated by the time the two sides meet again.

Supporters could also be keeping an eye on how Spurs fare as they battle Arsenal in the north London derby. West Ham face a tricky test too as they host Liverpool.

Saturday, May 4

Newcastle will face a similar type of opponent at the start of May as they travel to relegationthreatened Burnley. A repeat of the Magpies’ 2-0 victory in September would suit the away supporters and Eddie Howe will hope that it is a chance for his team to move further ahead of their rivals.

Spurs will end their nightmare four-game run by taking on Liverpool at Anfield. Brighton also face a tough away fixture at Villa, while Wolves play Man City at the Etihad Stadium.

Saturday, May 11

In the penultimate week of the season, Newcastle will look to end their final home match with a win over Brighton, in a game that could be crucial in the race for European football.

Depending on how Man United fare over the coming weeks, Erik ten Hag’s side could face a threat to their European hopes as they travel to Arsenal.

Sunday, May 19

The final day of the season will see Newcastle take on a Brentford side that could be battling for survival. Equally, the Bees would be an unpredictable test if their safety is already guaranteed.

Elsewhere, West Ham will look to pull off an unlikely away win over Manchester City. Wolves face a similar test against Liverpool in a match that could decide the title race. Brighton will host Man United in another potentially pivotal clash, while Spurs face an easier away trip to Sheffield United.