Eddie Howe warns Sir Jim Ratcliffe ahead of Manchester United v Newcastle

Eddie Howe knows Newcastle are in pole position to secure a sixth-place finish in the Premier League ahead of the final two games of the season.

Manchester United play Newcastle at Old Trafford on Wednesday night in a game that will be key in the race for sixth and European qualification.

Erik ten Hag’s side have 54 points and are behind Chelsea and Newcastle, who are both on 57 points. United have the Magpies and Brighton still to play in the league.

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe spoke of the importance of United being in the Champions League in February, citing the impact their participation would have on FFP. However, United now risk missing out on Europe altogether after their Champions League hopes ended.

They suffered a 1-0 defeat to title-chasing Arsenal at the weekend, while Chelsea won against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle drew against Brighton.

The Reds have an opportunity to show some spirit in their final home game of the season against Newcastle on Wednesday, but they will face a motivated side desperate for a result.

Howe discussed the clash and when asked about Newcastle’s poor away record, he said: “We’re looking for some consistency – it hasn’t been all bad.

“I think we won some good games, especially in the cups – but we didn’t have that feeling that we were going to win back-to-back games, it just didn’t happen.

“We didn’t build a rhythm on the road. As you say, it’s a great time to do it, two games in quick succession, two tough games individually, they’re both very tough opponents.

“But I think we can go with confidence. I think we are playing well and there was a real uptick towards the end of the season in overall performance. I think that’s the key.”

Howe continued: “It’s in our hands. Our difference in goals is very strong. You would always prefer it that way, you can control what you can control, we don’t have to look at other outcomes.

“But still, you’re not taking anything for granted. We know how difficult these two games will be. They are two huge games. The Manchester United game is perfectly timed, isn’t it?

“It will be huge for us. We will give everything we can to try and get a positive result and then of course Brentford will look after themselves on the last day. But like I’ve said all along, it’s probably going to go all the way.”

United won the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle last season, but the North East club have won each of their three meetings since then.

Newcastle are looking for just their second league win at Old Trafford in 51 years.