Newcastle legend Alan Shearer says he is “pretty confident” that his former club can seal Champions League qualification despite their upcoming fixtures against Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton.

The BBC pundit claims that 6 points should be enough to finish in the top 5, and he feels that, with two of those three games being played at St James’ Park, the Magpies will secure the results they need:

“I wouldn’t change Newcastle’s run-in. They’ve got Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton. Two home games. I would be hopeful and pretty confident they can with those two home games.”

“Maybe nick a point against Arsenal. They’re not at it, are they? They’re not as good as they have been or should be because of the situation they’re in with the Champions League. Six points will do it. We’ve got to play Chelsea. Chelsea have to play Forest. Six points will be enough for Newcastle.”

How is the Premier League table looking with 3 matches left?

Nottingham Forest’s draw against Crystal Palace on Monday evening means Eddie Howe’s men now have a two-point gap to 6th place.

Manchester City are a point ahead in 3rd while Chelsea are just behind them in 5th on goal difference. Aston Villa, meanwhile, are 7th on 60 points.

Will Newcastle beat Chelsea this weekend?

The bookmakers have made the Magpies the favourites to secure victory on Sunday afternoon. Most betting firms have them at 11/10 for the win, with Chelsea at 2/1 and a draw at 13/5 or 14/5.

It must be pointed out too that the home side have won their last three meetings at St James’ Park against their opponents, which includes the 2-0 victory in the Carabao Cup back in October last year. Shearer is, therefore, right to be confident heading into this weekend’s match.

Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here