Newcastle United’s games against Spurs and Manchester City over the festive period were looked at as something of a bonus if we got anything from them. However, the games against Wigan, and tomorrow’s game against West Ham are definitely games we should be looking to win. Staying in the Premier League is vital for this club. Beating the likes of Arsenal is a bonus, but if we can’t beat the teams around or below us, then serious questions need to be asked.

Fortunately, thanks in part to the magnificent vocal support by the NUFC fans at the DW Stadium, Newcastle were able to record a vital win over a feisty Wigan side. Newcastle had chances to put the game beyond Wigan, but the rustiness of Peter Lovenkrands and Shola Ameobi was plain to see. Ameobi should have put Newcastle a goal up in the first three minutes after a fine cross from Danny Simpson, but managed to head wide – in what was arguably the best chance of the match.

Amoebi did manage to grab the vital goal though as a close range finish after a scrappy interchange in the box, and fine work from Joey Barton. Both Coloccini and Steven Taylor saw efforts denied by the crossbar as the Toon asserted themselves in the second-half. Without star man Charles N’Zogbia Wigan look a side destined for the drop – they very rarely tested Newcastle’s goal and ‘Keeper Steve Harper had little to do. There was even a sighting for Leon Best as he was given a chance late on in the game and almost could have cemented the win.

Victory for the Toon managed to take us into 10th spot and pull further away from the relegation mire. We have a chance to complete our first double as West Ham bring their band of merry cockneys to St. James’s Park tomorrow. Another crucial game against an inform Hammers side with three points being vital for NUFC’s future.

Goals from substitute Shola Ameobi and full-back Jose Enrique saw Newcastle increase their lead at the top of the table and further stamp their authority on the Championship.

In a tight game with chances for both sides, it was Nottingham Forest’s goalkeeper Lee Camp who was the busier of the two ‘keepers. Andy Carroll’s volley in the first half showed just why Fabio Capello is showing an interest in the centre-forward, but Camp was equal to the effort, diving smartly to pull off a reflex save. The Newcastle defence didn’t have it all their own way though as Forest came forward with increasing confidence. It was difficult to judge on this performance why they haven’t won away from home in seven successive appearances.

After injuring his ankle in the first-half, Andy Carroll came off to be replaced by Shola Ameobi. The watching Alan Shearer would have been proud of Shola’s strike. After being played in by Nolan, Ameobi turned his marker and hit a low let foot shot across the Forest keeper which went in off the post.

Shola’s goal wasn’t his only contribution for the night as his smart back-heel played in fan favourite Jose Enrique who shot right-footed beyond the keeper. That saw Enrique mobbed by his teammates and it was plain to see the bond that the Newcastle players share – a far cry from the players who represented Newcastle when they were relegated.

This victory means that Newcastle can finish no lower than fourth, and a defeat for Nottingham Forest accompanied by a Newcastle win this weekend will see the Toon promoted. Chris Hughton’s name was once again chanted from the terraces and he deserves every accolade – this is a Newcastle side who are truly United.

What more can you say right now about the results Newcastle are getting other than I hope it lasts!

Goals from Shola Ameobi and Nile Ranger’s first goal for the club solidified our lead at the top of the Championship to seven points, and 12 points ahead of third place. Once again, Steve Harper proved he’s still got what it takes, as he once more kept another clean sheet. Harper for England? I would really like to see a goalkeeper in better form than Steve right now, I reckon you’d be hard pressed to find one.

I have to admit, I’m not Chris Hughton’s biggest fan, but he (and the rest of the staff) deserve a lot of credit for the way they’ve motivated the Newcastle squad, and brought about results at the same time. From what was a ragtag down-and-out group of players when we were relegated are now a determined group of lads who seem like they’re willing to give their all for Newcastle United.

Long may it continue.

Newcastle, unbeaten this season go into the game tomorrow looking to cement their place at the top of the Championship. However, they will have to do so without big Andy Carroll, Shola Ameobi and Jonas Gutierrez. Return signing Peter Lovenkrands is also a doubt as there are questions about the pacey attacker’s fitness.

We’ve always said that when we get a few players out we’ll suffer for it, and here we are barely into the second month of the season and we’re having to play the kids. Look for Nile Ranger to feature up front with a possible substitute place for much fancied Harris Vuckic. There is some good news though – Geremi and Coloccini are available for selection. Happy days.

Newcastle United old boy Michael Chopra is in great form – scoring four home goals and a total of seven for the season.

I think this one is too close to call and I just can’t see where Newcastle are going to get goals from.

Verdict: Cardiff City 1 – Newcastle United 1