With Newcastle approaching the midway stage in the Championship season, which teams have pushed them the hardest as they seek an immediate return to the Premier League?
After picking up 43 points from their first 20 Championship fixtures, Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United are firmly at the forefront of this year’s race to the Premier League. By bringing in a number of impressive signings, such as Bournemouth’s Matt Ritchie, Crystal Palace’s Dwight Gayle and Aston Villa’s Ciaran Clark, as well as signing their European Cup winning manager to a long term contract, Newcastle look to be in good shape for a firm push for promotion.
However, the Championship is one of the most unpredictable leagues in the world, as well as one of the hardest. With a number of teams around Newcastle United doing well this season, such as former boss Chris Hughton’s Brighton, Jaap Stam’s Reading and Steve McClaren’s in form Derby County, things certainly aren’t going to be plain sailing for the Magpies.
With that tough competition in mind, HITC Sport asked Newcastle United fans which Championship teams they consider to be their toughest opponents.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
“I’m worried about Brighton” suggested one Newcastle United fan, who pinpointed what an “excellent manager” Chris Hughton was. “If there was ever a team I’d want to come up with Newcastle United, it’s Brighton” said another Toon Army fan, who again mentioned his affection for former boss, Hughton.
Another fan mentioned that “history” would suggest that “Leeds United were the toughest”, though perhaps Leeds’ excellent form this season was enough to suggest that already.
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Brighton manager Chris Hughton
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