The pivotal month that could determine Newcastle United's Premier League status

It has been a memorable start to 2022 for Newcastle United, who have given themselves a real chance of staying in the Premier League despite being cut adrift.

When Eddie Howe was appointed as the club's new manager back in November, the Magpies were five points off survival having failed to win any of their opening 11 matches.

Fast forward to mid-February and Newcastle are currently four points above the bottom three and are looking in a good position to climb the Premier League table.

In fact, only Liverpool are in better form than the Magpies at this moment in time, having secured three wins in their last four games, beating Leeds United, Everton and Aston Villa.

Now the Magpies have an excellent opportunity to build on that record with what could be said as season-defining fixture schedule ahead of the upcoming international break.

Howe's side are set to play six matches between now and March 20 and only one of those teams sit in the top-eight, giving the Magpies a chance to pick up some crucial points.

Newcastle's next six fixtures: Brentford (A), Brighton (H), Southampton (A), Chelsea (A), Everton (A), Crystal Palace (H)

Saturday's 1-1 draw at West Ham United would've given the Magpies plenty of confidence that they can compete against any team in the division.

The Hammers are in the race for a Champions League spot, but Newcastle put in a terrific performance to pick up a vital point and their focus now turns to this weekend's trip to Brentford.

Newcastle and the Bees couldn't be in more contrasting form right now. Thomas Frank's side have failed to win any of their last seven matches and have been dragged into the relegation battle.

However, the Magpies could leapfrog their opponents with all three points at the