Former Newcastle midfielder Didi Hamann believes the Magpies should be aiming for a “top six” finish this season.

Speaking to Genting Casino, Hamann said that the top 3 places have already been “locked up” (presumably by Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal) but Eddie Howe’s side can still get in the mix for European qualification:

“I wouldn’t rule them out of getting into the Champions League this season, even though it won’t be easy. The top three, they have it locked up. So, you have to win a league of 17 teams, including Chelsea and Manchester United, Villa and Tottenham. If Newcastle could get back in the Champions League – because you get so much money by getting in – it gives them a better opportunity to win a cup in the following years.”

“Playing European football is vital. They should finish in the top six. I think they will finish in the top six. Eddie Howe is well-liked, which is very important up there because if people don’t like you, usually you have a hard time. He has to win games. I think they’ll be fine. They had a tough start to the season, but they’ve found a bit of form now.”

The defeat to West Ham was a kick in the teeth

Newcastle had begun to find some form in recent weeks with some excellent wins against the likes of Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, but the result on Monday night was a shock.

They didn’t exactly perform that badly but they got punished on the counter-attack by the Hammers. The team will have to lick their wounds and react positively when they face Crystal Palace this weekend.

How far are Newcastle from the European places?

The loss to West Ham means the Magpies currently sit 10th in the Premier League on 18 points from 12 matches. They are only four adrift of the top four but their inconsistent form does raise question marks about whether they can stay in touch over the coming months.

While the return of some key players from injury will aid their cause, you do feel that the squad could do with some reinforcements. However, Howe has already hinted that the club won’t be that active during the January transfer window.

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