Rio Ferdinand caused a stir by suggesting that Newcastle would actually be happy about finishing at the bottom of their Champions League group. Eddie Howe’s squad faced a crucial match against AC Milan, but a 2-1 loss dashed their hopes of advancing, allowing Milan to claim third place and secure a Europa League spot alongside PSG and Dortmund.

Speaking alongside Jermaine Jenas, Ferdinand asserted that despite injuries plaguing Newcastle, they would secretly feel relieved about not entering the Europa League. He highlighted the team’s extensive injury list, emphasizing the challenge of competing on multiple fronts with a depleted squad.

Ferdinand acknowledged Newcastle’s need for a win and for PSG to stumble against Dortmund to progress. Joelinton’s goal gave them hope, but Milan’s comeback, with Christian Pulisic and Samuel Chukwueze scoring, sealed Newcastle’s fate. Despite the disappointing outcome, Ferdinand felt Newcastle had missed a crucial opportunity, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on opportunities in high-stakes matches.

He believed Newcastle should have been more clinical, capitalizing on their dominance in the first half. Ferdinand suggested that converting more chances could have altered the outcome in their favour, underlining the importance of seizing opportunities at such competitive levels.

Newcastle United performance and stats

Newcastle United is currently 7th in the Premier League with 26 points.

In the last 16 games, it has won 8 times, drawn twice, and lost 6 times. In its last match, Newcastle United lost 4-1 against Tottenham Hotspur.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 33 goals and conceding 21.​

Newcastle United will play the next match in Premier League against Fulham on Saturday 16th of December in Newcastle upon Tyne. The prediction is Newcastle United winning the match.​