So then, what a European run we are having.
Not only a 100% record but also a headed winner from Steven Taylor to see Newcastle into the last 32, yes Steven Taylor of all people!
No victories in the Premiership since September but when it comes to the UEFA Cup, Glenn Roeder's side cannot stop winning.
It is so typically Newcastle United but when the draw for Group H was made many Toon fans feared the Euro dream wouldn't last beyond the group stages.
Who would have thought United would have wins against sides from Serie A and La Liga in the bag as well as a hard fought triumph over the rugged Turks of Fenerbahce?
The last 32 awaits now for Roeder - a man who went into the final day of last season as caretaker knowing only victory would do against Chelsea just to squeeze into the InterToto Cup.
But is Euro success enough for Roeder?
The UEFA Cup is miles away from the Champions League of course but even still Barcelona could be alongside United for the draw in the next stage.
It would be a shame for United not to finish as group winners now and the Toon fans who will head to Frankfurt next week are sure to be in good voice in Germany.
Many of them ducked the trip to Palermo, and in doing so dodged a shower of fireworks in Sicily, in order to get to Frankfurt and they will be looking forward to emulating the England World Cup fans at the Commerzbank Arena roar their side home in first place.
But with Pompey due on Tyneside on Sunday how much does European success paper over the cracks of a bad season in the Premiership?
Because unless United go all of the way in Europe, eventually, as Middlesbrough found out last term the bubble will burst.
Nevertheless, confidence is high going into the Portsmouth game but victory against Andy Cole and Co has never been more important.
The latest talk-in at Idols is on Sunday at 12pm and features Chronicle columnist Supermac and Joe Allon.
The event is free ahead of the Portsmouth game.
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