As Steve McClaren's Newcastle United side once again prepare to face Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday afternoon, he will be looking to get a more positive result than the last time the Toon faced Quique Sanchez Flores' side: a 1-0 loss in the FA Cup third round.
We speak to VAVEL UK writer and Newcastle fan Aaron Stokes, to get his thoughts on the approaching game.
Newcastle have had a tricky season and will need to find some good results to keep their place in the Premier League this season. Do you think this is achievable?
I think Premier League survival is definitely achievable. We've been playing much better football of late and our last two games have given a lot of fans hope. Players like Mitrovic are starting to settle and perform well. Not to mention our transfer activity. Shelvey is a fantastic signing and if we can get Berahino or Townsend I think we'll definitely be safe.
What are your thoughts on Steve McClaren? Is he the right man for the job at Newcastle?
I championed McClaren for the job last January but when it all went wrong at Derby County, I wasn't so sure. I think there are better managers available, such as Brendan Rodgers and David Moyes but it is unlikely we'll go for either of them anytime soon.
Since McClaren has been here we've performed quite well against the bigger teams (apart from Manchester City) but then against the teams around us we haven't faired so well. I think I need to give him until the end of the season before I judge him fully, but if he keeps us up in the Premier League I don't mind.
Despite Newcastle's struggles, are there any players that have stood out and impressed you this season? And who do you think really needs to up their game in the second-half of the campaign?
Georginio Wijnaldum has been absolutely fantastic. He is easily the best technical player we've had since Yohan Cabaye and it's imperative we keep hold of him. Rob Elliot has been a good replacement for Tim Krul in goal. Ayoze Perez and new man Chancel M'Bemba have also had a solid seasons, while Aleksandar Mitrovic had a slow start but he is starting to provide great hold-up play.
Players like Jack Colback and Vurnon Anita need to impress more, especially since we are signing midfielders at the moment.
What have you made of Watford this season and where do you think they can finish in the league table?
I have been very impressed by Watford this season. Sanchez Flores has them working well and playing for each other. I expected them to be in a relegation battle for most of the season but they are exceeding expectations. I know they haven't won in the league this year, but they were unlucky against Man City and I think they just need to get that confidence back and they'll be alright.
I think they'll probably finish between 11th and 14th, simply because teams like Crystal Palace and Everton around them will probably have a better chance of finishing in the top ten. Nevertheless, it'll be a great season for them.
Who do you consider as the biggest Watford threat to Newcastle picking up all three points?
The biggest threat Watford hold is definitely Odion Ighalo. He has been a revelation this season and had a fantastic 2015. He tore our defence apart at St. James' Park last year and when he is on form, he is brilliant. Troy Deeney is a close second.
Finally, what is your score prediction for the game?
My prediction for the game is 1-1. I think our recent form, coupled with Watford's poor run of late will make the game end in a draw.
