The recent decline of Newcastle United has raised concerns, with the team suffering a fourth consecutive defeat in all competitions and a fifth Premier League defeat in six games at home. The intensity that once characterized the team under Eddie Howe is missing, and even the manager is struggling to identify the cause. Newcastle's current form has put them 14th in the league, with Leeds potentially catching up. The team's performance has been underwhelming, and the lack of progress has led to disappointment among fans.
Meanwhile, other teams like Bournemouth are making strides, with Andoni Iraola's side extending their unbeaten run to 13 games and moving up to eighth in the Premier League table. Fulham's European qualification hopes seem distant due to their poor away record, and Marco Silva's squad selection has raised questions. Brentford's European bid is also stalling, with five consecutive draws and a lack of depth in their squad.
Leeds United, on the other hand, has seen an upturn in form, thanks in part to Noah Okafor's recent performances, with the Swiss striker scoring five goals in his last five appearances.