Eddie Howe knows his Newcastle United side could all but mathematically secure their Premier League future with three important games in the coming week. And the Magpies boss must also use his squad wisely at this stage of the season, with the games coming in quick succession.
The Magpies kick off a run of three matches inside seven days when Leicester City are the visitors to St James' Park on Sunday, followed by Crystal Palace at home on Wednesday night and a trip to Premier League strugglers Norwich City on Saturday, April 23. A healthy points return from that trio of games should see United firmly in the top flight for next season.
Howe has some injury concerns for the game with Brendan Rodgers' Foxes, who themselves are balancing their Premier League duties with Europa Conference League fixtures, having returned from a win at PSV on Thursday. Ryan Fraser's injury is likely to keep him out of action this weekend, but Joe Willock is available again having missed the win over Wolves.