EPL: Howe Says Newcastle Not Fearful Of Top Four Battle

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says his players are not afraid of the challenge of securing Champions League qualification as the season draws to a close.

The Magpies are sitting in third place and have four games to cement a top-four Premier League finish. 

Their charge was dented last weekend by Arsenal, allowing the chasing pack outside the top four to close in on them.

However, Howe maintains that his Newcastle players will not be daunted by the challenge, knowing two more wins would almost certainly secure a place in the Champions League next season.

"We’re looking forward to the challenges ahead, we’re not in any way, I don’t feel, daunted by it," he said.

“In sport, sometimes the more you think the more you damage yourselves, so play the game. 

"These players have played all their lives and played because they enjoy it, so let’s strip away everything and let’s just perform well in our next game.”

Newcastle travel to Elland Road on Saturday to play relegation-threatened Leeds and can't afford another wobble should they want a spot in the Champions League places.