Newcastle United have been handed a boost before a ball is even kicked against Southampton on Thursday night after the majority of the Magpies' relegation rivals dropped points.
Norwich City, Watford, Burnley, Leeds and Everton have all lost their most recent games, which makes Newcastle's 2-1 win against Brighton on Saturday all the more crucial. Although there is work to do yet, of course, Eddie Howe's side have moved seven points clear of the relegation zone.
Everton may have a game in hand on Newcastle, but the black-and-whites are still six points clear of Frank Lampard's side following a swing in results. To put that turnaround into perspective, back in mid-January, it was Everton who were seven points above Newcastle in the table.
