Rafael Benitez has said his side must set their sights on the ‘magical’ 40 point mark after what has been a difficult month.
The Magpies have lost five of their last six Premier League games, seeing them slip from as high as fourth all the way to 15th in the top flight. They currently sit only five points above the drop zone and in danger of slipping into a relegation dog-fight.
The Spaniard, who has been with the club since early 2016, says his side must now set their sights at 40 points in order to ensure their top flight safety come the end of the season.
“I was talking about 20 points in the first half of the league, and 20 in the second, it means 40 points is the salvation and, afterwards, [we] see where we are,” the Spaniard said.
“Every point is important to us. I try to send the same message all the time.”
The Magpies host Leicester City on Saturday and will be looking for their first win in all competitions since the end of October.