The previous week, Paul Merson referred to Eddie Howe’s match against Brentford as a “must-win.” Before today’s trip to Bramall Lane, he is still making the same statement one week later.
Why? Because he believes we are “already out of the title race” and that until we leave Sheffield United with three points, we won’t be able to earn another top-four finish.
I recognise the desire to build on our victory over Brentford and avenge our three consecutive losses to Man City, Liverpool, and Brighton, but at this point in the season, using the phrase “must win” is plain stupid.
Last season, after six games, we had seven points. After five games, we have six points, which means that if we draw at Sheffield, we will have the same number of points as we did at this point last season. Fast forward a year. A point would be a successful outcome today. No, but these are Merson’s most bizarre and outlandish remarks to date.
Here is what Merson had to say to Sportskeeda before predicting that we will win 3:0
“I believe that Newcastle must win this game, whilst Sheffield must gain something from this match.
“The Magpies were fortunate not to lose against AC Milan on their return to the UEFA Champions League, and they haven’t even come close to being what they were last year.
“In my perspective, they are already out of contention for the championship and may have a difficult time making the top four if they don’t put together a run of victories.
Sheffield, meanwhile, is already in a difficult situation and has already dropped a few games that they may have won. This weekend, I believe things will worsen for them since Newcastle has the talent and speed to harm them.
