Newcastle accelerate Champions League bid with Palace thrashing

Newcastle United have their Champions League destiny firmly in their own hands following a commanding 5-0 win over Crystal Palace at St James’ Park last night.

The Magpies have climbed into third place and shown no signs of complacency after their League Cup success.

The result extended their winning streak in the Premier League to six matches and underlined the squad’s growing belief.

Despite manager Eddie Howe’s continued absence due to illness, his players have responded in the best possible way, combining focus, intensity, and attacking quality.

Assistant manager Jason Tindall, who has been overseeing the team in Howe’s absence, praised the players’ performance and mindset.

“We spoke pre-game about maintaining the standards we set ourselves at the weekend, about being really aggressive and on the front foot,” Tindall said.

“I thought the players went about that and executed it brilliantly.”

Newcastle imposed themselves with pace and intent from the outset. Jacob Murphy opened the scoring with a blistering strike after another dangerous run down the right.

It was his eighth goal in his last 18 games, underlining just how far he has come this season and raising questions over whether a new right-wing signing is really needed.

Palace never recovered from that early blow, although they were handed a lifeline when awarded a penalty following a VAR review. Nick Pope saved Eberechi Eze’s tame effort to preserve Newcastle’s lead.

That moment proved decisive. Harvey Barnes looked sharp, scoring one and setting up another, while Sandro Tonali once again dictated proceedings in midfield.

Tindall also highlighted the depth in the squad and the hunger that remains despite recent success.

“We’ve got a fantastic squad and the balance of the team has been great,” he added.

“We want Champions League football again, and we have to stay focused. We’ve got six cup finals now remaining.”

Newcastle’s transformation in form since lifting the League Cup has been remarkable. They have accelerated, and their latest win lifts them above Nottingham Forest into the top three.

Howe’s side are in a commanding position to secure a return to the Champions League. However, the race remains tight, with Forest, Manchester City, Chelsea and Aston Villa all within five points.

Maintaining their current momentum could be decisive in keeping the challengers at bay.