Newcastle United went down to a 1-0 defeat against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park this afternoon but one former player feels the Magpies are inches away from safety.
Luka Milivojevic netted the only goal of the game in the 81st minute from the penalty spot as Newcastle succumbed to Crystal Palace, who moved four points clear of Rafa Benitez's men in the process.
Newcastle legend Chris Waddle believes his former side lacked quality in the final third but showed plenty of desire.
Most importantly, though, Waddle insists that Newcastle don’t even need to win any of their remaining five Premier League games to survive.
Newcastle are seven points clear of Cardiff City who sit in 18th and Waddle says that the Magpies only need two points at the most to stay up.
“Newcastle’s honesty and endeavour has been there, as Palace’s has. But both teams have lacked that bit of quality in the final third, especially Newcastle,” Waddle told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“It could have gone either way. It was two well-matched teams and Newcastle had the best chances. I think Palace played some nice football and got their reward with the penalty.
“They’re (Palace) safe now, and I think Newcastle only need a point or two then they’ll be safe too.”
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