The reasons why Newcastle United could finish 4th or better in this years Premier League

Newcastle are having a fantastic season and are currently in the top 4 in the Premier League. Can they maintain that position for the rest of the season?

Newcastle are surprisingly favorites to finish in the top 4 this season. They have played well this season while other teams such as Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham are having problems.
It would be a huge achievement for Newcastle if they managed to get into the Champions League even now, and with their new concept it would really start something big.

The defensive stability:
The biggest reason why the team is where they are currently. is that you have the league's best defense. They have conceded only 11 goals in 18 games, which means that goalkeeper Nick Pope is the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets 10.

The most important defensive players for Newcastle are of course Nick Pope, but Sven Botman and Kieran Trippier have proved to be good signings.

Nick Pope:
Games: 18
Goals conceded: 11
Clean Sheets: 10
Rating: 6.90

Sven Botman:
Games: 16
Aerials duels won: 1.8
Tackles per game: 1.1
Rating: 6.82

Kieran Trippier:
Games: 18
Assists: 4
Tackles per game: 2.2
Rating: 7.70

Eddie Howe:
Eddie Howe has created a team in harmony. You have created a good team spirit where you play more as a team instead of individually. You have a good mix between youth and experience and then you have created a structure in the defensive which is the starting point every time you start a match.
Eddie Howe is a skilled tactical coach and he has brought in players who fit exactly the way Howe wants to play. Tactically smart, who is ready to work hard in the ugly games while also being able to play possession football when necessary.

Can the offense continue to surprise?
The big offensive profile this season has been Miguel Almiron who has scored 9 goals so far. Together with Callum Wilson and Joelinton, they have been a threat to the opponents. Record signing Isak is injured, but Chris Wood has proven to be a good replacement, while Bruno Guimarares and Willock also contribute goals from their midfield position.

Miguel Almiron:
Goals: 9
Assists: 1
Shots per game: 2.2
Key passes per game: 0.8
Rating: 7.16

Callum Wilson:
Goals: 6
Assists: 2
Shots per game: 2.3
Key passes per game: 0.8
Rating: 6.89

Joelinton: 
Goals: 2
Assists: 1
Shots per game: 1.6
Key passes per game: 1.1
Rating: 7.29

We think Newcastle are favorites to finish in the top 4 and the reason for this is their defensive. Although Newcastle are not playing well, they have closed at the back and secured points, and this is usually how you create results.