It's hard to make any predictions when it comes to Newcastle United: few could have gambled on Joe Kinnear's appointment as Director Of Football this summer, or the fact that the club would be some inactive in the transfer window on the back of his appointment and last season's disappointments. But one thing that is certain is that the Toon should not be under-estimated by anyone this season. They may have rolled over almost comically against Manchester City, and played for only 45 minutes against both Hull City and Everton, but performances against Aston Villa, Everton in the second half, and Cardiff suggest the team can challenge when they're on form. Expectations at the outset of the season might have put Pardew as one of the most likely candidates for the sack (and that perhaps might still be the case) and Newcastle as possible relegation fodder after the disastrous end to last season, but there are considerable signs that Newcastle won't struggle as much as last year.
Honourable Mention
The Power Of The Crowd If Alan Pardew wants to get the most out of his team, he needs to get the club's supporters back on side. He has benefited somewhat by the appointment of Joe Kinnear, as the blame for the summer's lack of transfer activity has landed squarely at the former Wimbledon's boss's door, but last season's tactical failings lie with the manager. Pardew is unfortunately seen as a puppet from some parts of the Newcastle support; an accusation that usually rises after the release of a club statement, or quotes from the manager that are deemed too much like the party-line. But as the manager himself has stated recently, victories matter most, while passion on the pitch will be rewarded with the kind of support from the stands that actually pushes the team on. If Pardew can turn the crowd and home victories, like the Fulham and Leeds wins will help enormously.