‘I’m backing them’: Paul Merson predicts who is winning on Saturday – Newcastle or Aston Villa
While the Magpies were the surprise package last year in finishing fourth, Villa were not far behind under Unai Emery.
He has galvanised that club since replacing Steven Gerrard, and will be looking to improve further in what will be his first full season at Villa Park.
Emery will be eager to replicate Howe, whose first full season on Tyneside ended with Champions League qualification. It was remarkable, and has led to a change of expectations when it comes to the Magpies.
In his pre-match press conference, Emery stated that Newcastle ‘have’ to be in the top four. Those words put pressure on Howe’s side, but there is no expectation to qualify for the Champions League again.