Newcastle and Sunderland's Season Finale: More Than Just Pounds 800,000 on Offer

History tells us that teams which finish one season strongly have a habit of picking up where they left off, while those in freefall often continue their downward spiral. For Sunderland and Newcastle, ending the season strongly could have a bearing on the next one. Steve Bruce's side has been in a similar situation before, and their current form guide does not read much differently. Four wins in 18 could easily become four in 21 with impending losses. In contrast, strong finishes can lead to momentum carrying over into the next season, as seen with Harry Redknapp's Tottenham Hotspur in 2008-09.

Key Takeaways:

• The North East's big two, Newcastle United and Sunderland, have nothing left to play for in terms of European qualification or avoiding relegation, but their performance in the remaining games could impact the next season.
• Sunderland has been in a similar situation before, with a strong finish in 2002 being followed by relegation the next season. Their current form guide of four wins in 18 matches is similar to their 2001-02 record of three wins in 21 matches.
• Steve Bruce's teams have a history of notable comebacks, including a 49-point run from 30 matches in the 2008-09 season, which carried momentum into the next campaign.
• Both Newcastle and Sunderland have made discreet enquiries to players in recent weeks and will have to win their remaining games to impress potential targets.
• Jos Enrique and Joey Barton, both part of the last relegated Newcastle side, will not want to go through that again and are therefore motivated to play well in the remaining games.
• Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has been promised the £35m Andy Carroll cash will be reinvested, but the squad's weaknesses will need to be addressed to make a stronger push-up the division.
• Resting players, such as Cheik Tiot, who has 13 bookings this season, could be a good strategy for both managers to avoid taking unnecessary risks and prevent injuries.

Statistics:

• Sunderland has four wins in 18 matches.
• Newcastle and Sunderland have three games each to play.
• Steve Bruce's teams have a history of notable comebacks, including a 49-point run from 30 matches in the 2008-09 season.
• Jos Enrique and Joey Barton are both part of the last relegated Newcastle side.
• Cheik Tiot has 13 bookings this season, with the risk of a three-match ban if he accumulates 15 bookings.
• The sale of Darren Bent to Aston Villa in January gave Sunderland a windfall they must invest wisely.
• The remaining games are crucial for Newcastle and Sunderland, with the potential to earn extra cash by pushing up the division.

Sources:

• BBC Sport
• The Guardian
• The Telegraph
• The Independent
• Premier League official website