The curtain fell on a record breaking campaign when Newcastle edged Brighton 2 to 1 at St James Park on 25 May. The victory pushed the Magpies to 78 points, their best return since the Kevin Keegan era, and clinched third place behind Liverpool and Arsenal. Eddie Howe savoured the moment beside a sea of black and white flags while supporters chanted his name long after the whistle. Newcastle had sat seventh on Boxing Day, but an eight win run between February and April vaulted them into contention for the Champions League spots. During that stretch the defence allowed only 4 goals, thanks to the towering partnership of Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles in front of ever reliable Nick Pope. In midfield, Bruno Guimarães dictated tempo with an average of 77 passes per match, while teenager Lewis Miley emerged as a composed deputy whenever Joelinton or Sean Longstaff needed rest. Up front, Alexander Isak finished chances with surgical calm, ending the league campaign on 26 goals. The financial impact is seismic. Club officials project at least 60 million pounds in additional broadcast revenue and match day earnings from Champions League football next season. Sporting director Dan Ashworth confirmed scouting trips for a right sided centre back and a rotation full back, positions deemed essential to handle the crowded fixture list ahead. Howe struck a measured tone. He praised the collective hunger in the squad but reminded the media that maintaining standards will be the next challenge. Pre season testing begins on 4 July, and every player has already received an individual conditioning plan. Tyneside is buzzing, and with European nights set to return for a second successive year, the dream of silverware suddenly feels less distant.
