Newcastle continue winning run with win over Chelsea

NEWCASTLE: For the first time in 21 years Newcastle United find themselves in the top four of the Premier League at Christmas — and they ensured that statistic by out-classing, out-battling and out-scoring one of the so-called ‘big six’ elite. A solitary Joe Willock strike in the second-half was enough to ensure three points remained on Tyneside — and send Chelsea home empty-handed — taking Newcastle’s total to 30 from 15 games. Just two points separate United and Manchester City, Liverpool are eight behind the high-flying Magpies.

In a season where a lot has been made of Newcastle’s ‘ceiling’ as a football club, just ask Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp — but game-by-game it’s proving impossible to really know where this side maxes out. Is Champions League football out of the question? Well, not on this evidence. It’s human nature to rule out a title tilt, but what have the Magpies got to fear? Only Liverpool, courtesy of a 98th minute winner, have handed the bitter taste of defeat to the black and whites.

The Blues, who dominated United at St. James’ Park around 12 months ago, looked light years behind Eddie Howe’s side, who were the outfit on the front foot, against a Chelsea side who looked content to contain. How the tables have turned.