The Champions League is once again just around the corner and football fans from all walks of life are gearing up for what is in store. With many teams slated to perform neck and neck next season, it is currently anyone’s guess who might eventually walk away the winner. Having said this, certain clubs are predicted to make a comeback and Newcastle could very well be returning to Europe in the not-so-distant future.
In order to better understand the possible odds, it is always wise to examine past performances. This brings us to an entirely relevant question. How did Newcastle fare when they last appeared in the European Champions League? Let’s take a trip down memory lane to learn more.
A Blast from the Past
While die-hard Newcastle fans may find this difficult to admit, the last time that Newcastle was involved in a European competition was as far back as 2013. This was on the heels of a surprisingly impressive 2011/2012 season. Although they they did not take the top spot in the Europa League, Newcastle nonetheless finished in a somewhat respectable fifth place.
A Solid Lineup
One of the reasons why Newcastle performed so well involved their lineup on the pitch. Names which have now become immortal such as Papisse Cisse, Yohan Cabaye and Demba Ba were forces of their own at the time and they certainly provided the buoyancy that Newcastle required when battling it out in such a top-tier competition.
However, it is just as important to recall the role that talent scout Graham Carr played. Many feel that Newcastle would not have performed nearly as well considering the fact that Carr was behind the majority of the signings that would serve to define Newcastle throughout the 2013 Europa League. Fans of sports wagering who were keen to find an active betting bonus before placing their chips on Newcastle at the time would certainly have had to take this factor into account.
Rising to the Quarterfinals
Much of the credit for Newcastle’s performance throughout the Europa League can be attributed to manager Alan Pardew. Some would even state the ascending to the quarterfinals would have been all but impossible without his leadership. Of course, it is just as crucial to mention that Newcastle was also able to vanquish formidable clubs during the Europa League including Metalist Kharkiv, Anzhi Makhachkala and Bordeaux. Unfortunately, this momentum would eventually be out in check by Benfica. It can be argued that the main weakness of Newcastle throughout the competition was a notable lack of squad depth.
The main question now is whether or not Newcastle will be able to rise to the occasion once again. After all, the team is undoubtedly motivated and rearing to return to Europe. Considering the changes witnessed under the tutelage of Eddie Howe alongside the presence of players such as Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier, this club could very well stun fans and competitors alike. We will simply have to watch and wait.
