Mark Lawrenson verdict on Newcastle United with 7 days to go until the end of the season

Mark Lawrenson has shared his thoughts on Newcastle United as the Premier League season approaches its final stretch, with just one week left before the curtain falls on a campaign filled with drama, unpredictability, and standout performances.

Speaking ahead of Newcastle’s upcoming clash at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, the former Liverpool defender offered his perspective on what could prove to be a decisive fixture in the race for European qualification.

Newcastle have already played an exhausting forty-six matches across all competitions this season, and their record speaks volumes about the strides they’ve made.

With twenty-nine wins, six draws, and eleven losses, Eddie Howe’s team has been nothing short of resilient, maintaining a level of consistency that has kept them firmly in contention for a European spot.

Now, with a trip to North London to face Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, they have the opportunity to further cement their reputation as one of the league’s rising powers.

Lawrenson acknowledged Newcastle’s strong form and energy going into this match, suggesting that the Magpies would undoubtedly approach the game with determination and focus.

However, he also pointed out Arsenal’s second-half performance against Liverpool at Anfield as a sign that the Gunners are still fighting until the very end.

Despite that, Lawrenson leaned slightly in favor of the home side, predicting a narrow 2-1 win for Arsenal and suggesting that this result could secure them second place in the table for a third consecutive year.

While Lawrenson’s prediction is reasonable, this fixture feels far more unpredictable than the scoreline implies. Arsenal, though talented and capable of brilliance on their day, have shown signs of faltering in recent weeks.

Their draw against a Liverpool side with little motivation left in the season came on the heels of a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Chelsea. This inconsistent form has raised questions about Arsenal’s mental strength in the final stretch of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have enjoyed a strong run of results that includes eight wins and a draw from their last ten matches in all competitions.

Their momentum appears to contrast sharply with Arsenal’s, who have only managed three victories in their last eleven Premier League outings. The difference in form is further highlighted when looking at Arsenal’s home performances.

They were booed off the pitch by their supporters after a loss to Bournemouth at the Emirates, and subsequent home games offered little comfort with a Champions League exit to PSG and league draws against Brentford and Crystal Palace.

Newcastle’s away form has also been impressive. Aside from a loss to a red-hot Aston Villa, they’ve drawn at Brighton and claimed three notable away wins, including a memorable victory at Wembley against Liverpool.

These performances on the road show that Eddie Howe’s squad is capable of handling pressure, even in high-stakes environments like the Emirates.

Should Newcastle replicate the intensity and cohesion they’ve displayed over the past couple of months, there’s every reason to believe they can come away from North London with at least a point.

Their attacking depth, physicality in midfield, and improved defensive structure provide the foundation for a performance that could frustrate and challenge Arsenal, especially if the Gunners continue to struggle with finishing and organization.

As the season winds down, the stakes remain high. Newcastle know they need to finish strong to secure European football for next year, and every point gained in these final fixtures is crucial.

After facing Arsenal, they will return to St James’ Park to host Everton on the final day—a match that could either confirm their resurgence or leave fans reflecting on missed opportunities.

The remaining two fixtures for Newcastle are set: Arsenal away on May 18, followed by a home clash against Everton on May 25. These matches will define their season.

With the squad firing on all cylinders and belief surging through the camp, Eddie Howe and his men are primed to end the campaign on a high note.

And while pundits like Lawrenson may see Arsenal as slight favorites, Newcastle’s recent form suggests they are far from finished—and ready to prove any doubters wrong.