On the other side, Chelsea has been picking up steam. With a 3-1 win over Liverpool last weekend, the Blues have gone unbeaten in six straight league matches, having won three contests in a row. In the tight race that both clubs are in, three points is almost a necessity to ensure they stay in the top five.

Eddie Howe's side secured a critical win in pursuit of a top-five finish as the visitors left contemplating life without their best No 9

Advantage Newcastle in the race for the Champions League. A 2-0 win against Premier League top-five rival Chelsea on Sunday moved Newcastle closer to a return to European club soccer’s top competition next season.