Newcastle United can do something they haven't managed since 2018 this weekend

Lee Clark says Newcastle United are in a "great place" going into Sunday's sell-out encounter against Aston Villa at St James' Park.

The former Toon star knows how the good times roll on Tyneside and is eager to see his old side pick up their third successive win in the Premier League - something the club haven't managed since 2018.

After wins against Leeds and Everton, it's a testing clash with Steven Gerrard's Villa on home soil.

Clark told Chronicle Live: "It would be brilliant to think Newcastle can now make it three wins on the spin the Premier League, absolutely magnificent.

"But we have to temper that with not getting carried away.

"Steve Gerrard has gone into Villa and done really well.

"That 3-3 with Leeds was really exciting to watch and that type of result on Sunday again would not surprise me.

"Gerrard has a certain way he wants to play and has some outstanding attacking players, not least Philippe Coutinho.

"However, they can concede goals too as we saw the other night.

"It has all the ingredients for an exciting game and one that Newcastle can definitely win if they put their minds to it - especially at home with the type of atmosphere served up against Everton."

Clark was delighted to see both the Leazes End and Gallowgate End pull off an eye-catching flag and banner display which was captured by TV cameras and beamed around the world.

Clark said: "The togetherness and bond between fans, players and management is fantastic.

"It counts for a lot that atmosphere, believe me.

"If Newcastle can beat Villa, again without getting carried away, you start daring to look at those above you who might be just three or four points ahead and you are thinking: 'Can we pull them into it?'

"Once you get into the mindset