Newcastle United have it all to do against Brentford on the final day of the Premier League season.
Eddie Howe’s side lost in rather disappointing fashion against Manchester United on Wednesday as Newcastle’s defensive frailties were again exposed.
It means they surely must win in west London on Sunday to stand any hope of qualifying for Europe.
Should they beat the Bees and sixth-placed Chelsea lose at home to Bournemouth, they would finish sixth. While it’s not yet clear as to whether or not it will be in the Europa League or Conference League, three points would set the Toon off on another adventure in at least some capacity.
If Chelsea win and Newcastle fail to match that result, it would mean Howe’s side are relying on Manchester City to beat Manchester United in the FA Cup final to guarantee continental qualification.
Were Newcastle to lose and eighth-placed Manchester United get at least a point at Brighton, Howe’s team would finish eighth and be out of European contention entirely.
So then, it’s all to play.
While little about Newcastle’s away form all season (five wins in 18) would suggest they will go to Brentford and leave with three points, Howe’s chances have been boosted.
Indeed, Callum Wilson is expected to be fit for the game to give him options up front, while both Nick Pope and Joelinton were on the bench at Old Trafford.
Speaking of Joelinton in particular, Howe was full of praise.
Eddie Howe says ‘agile’ star completely changes how Newcastle play
Reflecting on the Brazilian’s 28-minute cameo on Wednesday, the Newcastle boss talked up his performance.
“When he plays he brings a totally different dynamic to the group,” he said (via the Daily Mail).
“You could see when he came on, on Wednesday, that was the best he’s looked since his injury. He looked very much like his robust, agile self. Certainly, we need to find those answers for next year away from home.”
Joelinton is already outperforming Sean Longstaff
Indeed, that much was obvious away at Burnley earlier this month when Joelinton completed twice as many tackles as teammate Sean Longstaff (4 to 2) despite only playing for 13 minutes.
At Old Trafford (via WhoScored), that trend continued, albeit in an attacking sense more than anything.
Joelinton beat Longstaff for shots (3 to 2), aerial duels won (4 to 0) and dribbles (1 to 0) while matching him for key passes (1).
It would be foolish not to start him on Sunday.
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