Kieron Dyer has backed Newcastle United to qualify for the Champions League next season. However, the former Magpies midfielder fears this could lead to 'superstar' transfer targets who might not respect Eddie Howe.
Newcastle's victory over Chelsea in their final match before the World Cup break ensured they would be third at Christmas. Howe's side have lost just once so far this season, and also have a Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Bournemouth to come.
The Magpies' stunning start to the season has led many to speculate whether they could secure a top-four finish in Howe's first full season in charge. Newcastle have successfully gone toe-to-toe with so-called 'Big Six' clubs, with wins over Chelsea and Tottenham, and hard-fought draws with Manchester City and Manchester United.
READ MORE: 'No disrespect' - Former Newcastle star backs Alexander-Arnold in Trippier England debate
Dyer has backed his former side to defy the odds and book their place in next season's Champions League. The 43-year-old has praised Newcastle's recruitment so far, but outlined his concern that an unexpected top-four push could lead to 'superstars' being targeted who might disrupt the team's progress to this point.
Dyer told the True Geordie podcast : "The only thing I worry about is that if you have a chance of going Champions League and then you try to sign a superstar. This is no knock on Eddie, will he be able to handle the Ronaldos, the Mbappes, do you know what I mean?
"They could just look at him and go who the f*** are you? It's different having a Poch [Mauricio Pochettino], I think that would be unfair for him because of what he's done to that club.
Joe Willock scored the only goal of the game at St James' Park against Chelsea as the Magpies sealed their seventh win in their last eight Premier League matches. Dyer was stunned by the quality of Newcastle's performance, and believes they have fully bought in to Howe's philosophy.
He added: "I couldn't believe the power, the energy, and pace you play with when I was watching them live against Chelsea. You were getting Chelsea to boot the ball long, going I dare you to play.
"Fair play to Joelinton, I've been one of his biggest critics but the energy...he must have my lungs when I was playing. He can run all day but with that power and pace.
"I just look at that team and identity and think Eddie's motto on intensity, you see that on the pitch. The recruitment has been brilliant. Everything Newcastle have done, I've loved. I went there as a fan and I couldn't believe the energy, they're on to something."
READ NEXT
Newcastle United player ratings for season so far as Miguel Almiron dazzles and quartet stand out
Newcastle United ace Joe Willock wins November player of the month award and makes December vow
Exclusive: Newcastle ace Joe Willock feels he's improved 'leaps and bounds' from record breaking run
'Great to witness' - Miguel Almiron's Newcastle United rejuvenation leaves Eddie Howe beaming
'True potential' - Eddie Howe explains upturn in form of key Newcastle United trio
