Newcastle Backed For "Top-10" Finish In Premier League By Unlikely Source

Newcastle United have received backing from an unlikely source - with former Magpies striker Michael Owen predicting they could achieve a "top-10 placing" in the Barclays Premier League this season. Robbie Savage claimed earlier in the week that he "feared" for the Magpies and expects them to "struggle" under McClaren, but Newcastle's record signing - and now BT Sport pundit - disagrees. Describing McClaren as "one of the best coaches" he ever worked with, former Newcastle, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Owen believes the ex-England boss could "do well" during the 2015-16 campaign.

In particular, Owen seems impressed by Newcastle's acquisitions of Georginio Wijnaldum, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Chancel Mbemba. Speaking to Colossus Bets, Owen said:

"I think Steve McClaren could do well at Newcastle. "I do like him as a manager and he is one of the best coaches I worked with in my career, and Newcastle have paid big money for three players in the summer. "I wouldn€™t rule out a top-10 placing for my old club."

This contrasts greatly with his fellow BT pundit Savage who - as he so often loves to do - stuck the boot into the Magpies earlier in the week (Breathe Sports):

"They (Newcastle) have made three signings and spent £50 million - but I fear for Newcastle. "Steve McClaren is a good coach, but Derby (County) should be in the Premier League. They were in control (in the Championship last season), and finish(ed) in eighth. "Newcastle had a poor season last year - they are a big club, with big expectations, and could struggle."

With all 38 of Newcastle's Premier League fixtures still to come, we will have to wait until May to see which of the BT Sport pundits was correct in their assertion... For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow WhatCulture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.