10 Reasons Why History Is Not On Newcastle's Side For Relegation Fight

8. Sunderland Have A Habit Of Avoiding The Drop

Sunderland appear to have developed a habit of avoiding the drop right at the death - and they look set to do so for the third year in succession, possibly relegating their North-East rivals in the process. In 2012-13, Sunderland finished 17th on 39 points - just ahead of Wigan Athletic, who dropped down to the Championship, and just behind Newcastle. However, Sunderland's escape last season was even-more miraculous. With just six games remaining, the Black Cats looked dead and buried - but four wins later and, not only did Sunderland survive, they finished five points clear of 18th-placed Norwich City, and as high as 14th! The Black Cats squad is full of players who have experienced relegation dogfights recently - and avoided the drop regularly too - while Newcastle's isn't, so that makes demotion a distinct possibility for the Magpies.