Eddie Howe's Newcastle United side now remain on course to avoid a late season face off for Premier League survival after the latest batch of results put matters back in the Magpies' own hands. Aided by Burnley's defeat against Leicester City in midweek, Newcastle have a precious four-point advantage over the third-bottom Clarets.
If the pattern of results continued this way United would definitely avoid what could be a potential last day survival play-off at Turf Moor against the Clarets. Although, Howe is eager to stave off the threat of the drop much earlier than May.
As things stand there is a good chance of doing so in April if Newcastle can maintain their good form and keep on picking up points like they have been since January. Howe has issued the line: "If you can't win - don't lose," in recent weeks.
