The Newcastle United fan base are a mix of positivity and nerves as the Magpies prepare for their biggest game of the season against fellow Champions League chasers Brighton.
A defeat and a draw in recent games hasn't set alarm bells ringing for Eddie Howe but a section of Newcastle supporters are notably less confident of securing a spot in Europe's premier competition with three games to go. This, despite the fact destiny remains firmly in the club's hands with three games to play.
One simple statistic should give Newcastle fans of a nervous disposition hope. The Magpies have won eight of their last 11 games, while Liverpool and Brighton have won seven and six respectively. Howe's men have delivered time and time again this term - and can do so again.
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Admittedly, Liverpool's seven wins have came on the spin but the Merseyside outfit have shown to have a chink in their armour at various stages this term. Jurgen Klopp's side still have to face Europe-chasing Aston Villa and relegated Southampton before the end of the campaign.
“I don’t think it’s likely (finishing in the top four) when you see how Newcastle and Manchester United play. They have so much quality," the Liverpool boss told Sky Sports after beating Leicester on Monday.
With Brighton arriving at St James' Park on Thursday, much has been made of the Seagulls' form in recent months. Roberto De Zerbi is working wonders with the team he inherited from Graham Potter and Sunday's hammering away to Arsenal has added to the sudden bout of nerves across Tyneside.
However, as Chronicle Live columnist John Gibson wrote on Tuesday, you only have to cast your mind back another week to remember this Brighton side were demolished at home to Sean Dyche's Everton.
Newcastle more than managed Brighton during the 0-0 draw at the Amex Stadium at the start of the season, and boast an incredible home record this term after beating the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham at St James' Park.
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