Newcastle Ready For 'Big Test' In Champions League Race - Howe

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says his team is ready for the "big test to come" in the race to finish in the Champions League places in the Premier League.

Howe reckons that there is a growing belief at St James' Park while noting that the Magpies have got it all to prove in their last set of games this season.

The Magpies are currently in third position in the league, only above fourth-placed Manchester United on goal difference and three points clear of Tottenham who have played one game more.

They have nine matches left in their top four run-ins and some of these matches are tough to close the campaign.

The visits of Spurs, Brighton and Arsenal look massive, while away trips to Aston Villa and Chelsea on the final day also appear challenging.

Asked whether Newcastle can qualify for the Champions League ahead of Saturday's trip to Villa Park, Howe said: “I think there’s a growing belief that we’re getting back to our best form after a difficult period around January time, where we were a little bit frustrated with ourselves in the Premier League.

"I think the Wolves win I’ve said was a big, big moment for us, it got us back to winning ways.

"We’ve backed that up with three really tough games over the last week.

"That was a big test for us mentally and physically, we came through it.

"Now we go into what I see as the last set of games this season, but a big test to come, nothing's decided and we’ve got it all to prove."