Newcastle United's start to the Premier League campaign was nothing short of remarkable with Eddie Howe's side losing just one of their opening 15 matches and winning seven of their final eight before the World Cup-enforced break.
The Magpies are currently sat in third place ahead of returning to Premier League action on Boxing Day at Leicester City with a Carabao Cup round of 16 clash at home to Bournemouth on December 21 their first competitive match back.
With a 5-0 victory against Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia and a second friendly against Spanish side Rayo Vallecano scheduled for this Saturday (December 17), United have kept themselves in good knick. But what lies ahead for Howe and company as they look to secure Champions League qualification for the first time since 2003?
