However, PIF‘s goal is to be regulars in the Champions League, and some have suggested that the Magpies can qualify again this year due to not having the added pressure of competing in Europe.

Before a ball was kicked, Alan Shearer said Newcastle could challenge for the top four – but only if they signed Marc Guehi. That deal did not happen, with the 24-year-old proving to be too expensive.

And given the lack of major signings, less is suddenly expected of Newcastle United.

Newcastle no longer tipped to qualify for the Champions League

That is the view of TalkSPORT presenter Jeff Stelling, who has changed his mind about how Eddie Howe’s side will get on this season.

Last month, Stelling forecasted that Newcastle will complete 4th. However, he has actually now informed TalkSPORT that he does not see it taking place any longer after the absence of transfer activity and seeing the Magpies’ bench versus Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

“Newcastle fans – don’t get up my back about it because I had you finishing in the top four,” he stated.

“Having seen yesterday, actually having looked at your bench yesterday, I don’t think you can finish top four because the lack of activity during not just think transfer window but the previous transfer window as well means that the squad is pretty much threadbare.

“So I might just have to change my mind about finishing top four.

“But a great win against all the odds [against Tottenham].”

It is uncertain how well Newcastle United will do

Given Newcastle’s failure to enhance Eddie Howe’s team, it is easy to understand that an expert like Stelling is no longer backing them to complete in the leading 4.

The absence of brand-new finalizings is enormously frustrating, and need to lead to less being anticipated of Howe. How can he provide Champions League football if he is not offered the tools to do so?

However, there is still a possibility. Newcastle are not shooting yet, however this is a great group. And it is a group that is just going to get much better.

Stelling kept in mind that the Newcastle bench was uninspiring on Sunday, however that need to quickly alter. Howe will ideally have Callum Wilson and Joe Willock back from injury quickly, and they will include extra depth to a team that was torn apart last season with physical fitness issues.

It will be a huge request for Newcastle to complete in the leading 4, specifically offered the competitors. Howe’s task has actually been made harder by the absence of brand-new finalizings, however he has actually defied the chances before at St James’ Park.

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