This is the first time I’m going to allow myself to believe.  As superstitious as I am I hope there is really no such thing as a jinx.  I really believe Newcastle United can qualify for the Champions League.  

If Newcastle can take 6pts from their final 4 games (Wigan-A, Chelsea-A, City-H, Everton-A) I think they will have a real shot at qualifying.  This would also mean that they would have won 8 of their last 10 matches, or, that they were unbeaten in their final 10.  The fact that they could perform this feat and barely squeak in or still miss out all together reinforces how truly difficult it is to finish in the top 4.  The 6 points will get them through if both Chelsea and Spurs are unable to make an emphatic finish.  

Spurs final 4 matches- Rovers-H, Bolton-A, Villa-A, Fulham-H.  Not exactly murderers row.  If the Magpies are able to get the 6pts, Spurs would need 9 from these matches.

Chelsea final 4 (league) matches- QPR-H, Newcastle-H, Liverpool-A, Rovers-H.  They have to also play Barca at the Nou Camp on Tuesday (4/24) and Liverpool at Wembly on 5/5.  Newcastle are catching them on Wednesday 5/2, three days after QPR and 2 days before the FA Cup Final.  Great opportunity there.

I will emotionally hedge that even if they don’t qualify for champions league, it has still been an incredible year.  I can unequivocally say that is the truth.

For now, #occupythetop4 . Howay the Lads!