Newcastle United's St James' Park
Newcastle United's St James' Park
For Eddie Howe and his Newcastle United squad, the task for the remainder of the season is a clear one. No other distractions, just pure focus on finishing in the top five of the Premier League.
They have ten matches to get the job done and, with a game in hand over their rivals, can take a big step in their Champions League aims in the coming weeks. While others have FA Cup and European matches to factor in, Howe and Co can concentrate purely on league matters.
However, off the field, there is still plenty going on which will have a big impact on the club's future. From the ongoing discussions over the future of St James' Park to some delicate contract talks, there is a lot which can - and will - happen in the coming months. Here are some of the things to look out for.
Carabao Trophy parade
For the fans, this will be a day for all those hundreds of thousands not able to get Wembley tickets to show their appreciation for the achievement. However, for Eddie Howe and his squad, this weekend's celebration will draw a line under the Carabao Cup win ahead of the Premier League run-in.
While supporters will revel in the memory of that win over Liverpool for weeks, months and years to come, Howe knows his side have to move on and focus on the job in hand, starting against Brentford on April 2. United have ten games in which to seal a top-five spot and a place in the Champions League next season. They are currently in a strong position to do just that, but as we've seen too many times this season, they will be punished if they take their eye off the ball.
Manchester City FFP ruling
There is so much uncertainty surrounding this, but there will be a ruling in the near future. No one is really certain when, just that it gets closer with every passing day. The fallout will be huge, no matter which way it goes, and will effect the entire Premier League, including Newcastle.
There could be huge repercussions for the league's current financial rules should Manchester City claim victory, or serious punishments handed out if it goes the other way. One thing for sure is that will change the landscape forever, and Newcastle will be watching very closely.
Fifth place confirmation
It would take some seismic changes in the current European competitions to change England's place in the UEFA rankings, but nothing is yet confirmed. As things stand, the Premier League leads the coefficient rankings, meaning fifth place will earn a Champions League spot next season. With competition fierce, that is vital for Newcastle United's hopes of returning to the elite competiion - although they are already guaranteed at Europa Conference League place after winning the Carabao Cup.
The chances of England being caught grow slimmer with each passing round, and with Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United still in European competition, it's looking extremely positive.
St James' Park plans announcement
To stay and extend or build a new stadium - its the quandry which has been taxing the United hierarchy for several months now. It's not an easy decision and one they are rightly taking their time over, consulting with fans groups, architects and city officials before making any final choice.
Whatever the outcome - either extend and uprade St James' Park or build an entirely new stadium - it will have a big impact o the club's future revenue streams. A decision is not far off, so watch this space.
Contracts expire
June 30 is the date when contracts expire across Europe, meaning some big decisions on both the incoming and outgoing front. Newcastle have several players approaching what could be their final months at the club, most notably Fabian Schar, Callum Wilson and Jamaal Lascelles. Swiss defender Schar is expected to stay, but there are still question marks over whether Wilson and Lascelles will be Newcastle players next season.
On the other side of the coin, United can move quickly to sign out-of-contract players for free, in what would be a huge boost to their aim to stay within PSR regulations. Lille striker Jonathan David is one such target - but of course there will be a queue for any top quality players available on a free.
Newcastle United Carabao Cup WINNERS 2024/25
At last, Newcastle have their hands on silverware!
After an agonising 56-year wait, the Magpies' amazing army of fans can celebrate watching their side lift a trophy after their Carabao Cup final win. And to celebrate, the Newcastle Chronicle have produced this souvenir special, marking the Wembley triumph.
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It is packed full of reaction, analysis and quotes as well as amazing pictures from the day, and a centre-spread poster.
It is the perfect souvenir of an historic day for Newcastle.
Buy now and have it delivered directly to your door. Alternatively you can purchase in most supermarkets, high street retailers and independent newsagents in the North East from March 20, 2025.