Newcastle United have performed above expectations in the Premier League this season and enter this week’s clash with Burnley sat seventh in the table.
One point above their opponents on Monday night, Newcastle are riding a wave of optimism that’s flooded over the club due to the ongoing takeover talks- with Mike Ashley intending to complete a sale before the festive season.
That will provide the club with a significant boost and the Magpies’ performances this season have led to one pundit to change his tune, predicting a win for the first-time this season for Newcastle- having continuously overlooked them for the opening nine weeks.
Predicting a 2-1 draw, Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson make a bold claim by stating he believes Rafael Benitez will be Manager of the Season if the Magpies can finish in the top-six; something that’s certainly possible.
‘I haven’t gone for Newcastle to win once this season but that changes today! Burnley’s home form has been a little shaky and Newcastle are on a roll. They did well against Southampton and the Palace win was big for them. They are punching well above their weight – if they finish sixth Rafa Benitez will be manager of the season.’
‘The name of the game remains safety and hopefully for Newcastle fans their club will be in a position in January to have a real go in the FA Cup. That would be brilliant.’
A victory could see Newcastle rise into the top-four, depending how other results over the course of the weekend pan out.
