Eddie Howe has insisted Newcastle United will not bottle their place in the Premier League's top four as Liverpool pile on the pressure.
The Magpies need a maximum of seven points from their remaining four matches to secure Champions League football for next season.
Liverpool moved to within three points of Howe's side after six wins on the bounce while the Magpies lost to Arsenal last time out. Newcastle do, however, have a game in hand on Jurgen Klopp's side.
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Newcastle take on Leeds United on Saturday lunchtime and have a chance to move six points ahead of Liverpool before the Reds take on Leicester City on Monday night.
Howe said: “I think in sport the last bit is always the most difficult thing. That is why it is important that I alleviate the pressure from the players and we have tried to do that in training this week.
“The air should be lighter, not heavier. I don’t feel we are daunted by it. They have trained and feel good and seem to be in a good headspace. We are thinking about what we can achieve, not any consequences.
“We have tried to make sure they have enjoyed themselves and have some fun and just switch off from probably the endless things they will hear. It is about football and trying to win the next few games. The best way to do that is to enjoy what they are going for.”
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