There's an old saying in London that West Ham usually come down with the Christmas decorations when it comes to challenging for a place in Europe.
Or at least, I heard a West Ham fan say that on Talksport a few weeks ago when the Hammers lost back to back matches at home to Leeds and then away to Man United!
Since then they have beaten Watford and drew with Leicester to stay in contention in the table and now sit fifth in the table after Man United's win over Brighton.
Don't get me wrong, seeing a side like West Ham qualify for the Champions League would be good for football if only to see a different team have a crack on the biggest stage in Europe.
But with 13 games left and the final straight ahead of us, this will be a test of West Ham's nerve - and Newcastle will pose a tough challenge as West Ham's credentials start to get questioned.
Lee Ryder's prediction
A few weeks ago I'd have called this one a home win but since then Newcastle have gained confidence and put this four-match unbeaten run together since the FA Cup defeat against Cambridge.
But I still think this one will be the toughest of all the games Newcastle have faced in recent times and going there without Kieran Trippier makes life more complicated.
I think it could be a lunchtime stalemate at the London Stadium but I don't think many will argue with that on the way back home to the North-East.
Here's to a good solid point and I'll gladly be proved wrong if Newcastle can better it with an away win.
Referee
Chris Kavanagh (Lancashire)
A swift return to the scene with Newcastle after taking charge of the 1-0 win at Leeds last month
Betting
West Ham vs Newcastle odds with Grosvenor Sport
- West Ham - 17/10
- Draw - 14/5
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Newcastle - 21/5
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