For Newcastle, the current season is special, as the team returned to the Champions League. However, the Magpies are now going through a difficult period psychologically. The quest for participation in the play-offs of the elite European Cup last week ended in failure when Newcastle lost at home to Milan and took the final fourth place. Howe's men were not favourably disposed to a penalty shootout loss in the English League Cup at Stamford Bridge. "Magpies" beat Chelsea until 90+2 minutes, but allowed the "blues" to equalise and turn the decision on the winner into eleven-metre kicks. In turn, Luton Town is desperately fighting to keep their place in the elite division. "Hatter's" got here for the first time in more than thirty years, so initially had the status of one of the outsiders. Now the club is located on the border of the relegation zone, but has one match in reserve. The meeting against Bournemouth, during which doctors saved the life of Tom Lockyer, the Football Association decided to replay completely. Bookmakers have identified the guests as favourites for the upcoming meeting, offering odds of 1.65 on their victory.

In the Premier League standings, three clubs clearly stand out as potential candidates for relegation. They are Luton Town, Burnley and Sheffield United, who have not gained ten points after seventeen rounds and ten points. Luton's fate does not look sealed not only because of one match to spare. Firstly, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest are gradually sliding down the standings, having lost almost all their matches over the last month and a half. Secondly, the Hatters themselves are seriously struggling in every single match. For example, in December Luton Town lost to the formidable Arsenal and Manchester City with a one goal difference, beating them in the process.

Newcastle's play has deteriorated badly in recent weeks, so the Champions League collapse is not the only reason for the players to be upset. Just two December defeats of "forty" with a difference of three goals from Everton and Tottenham. The match with Luton Town away also does not suggest a gift of three points to the ambitious guests.