Newcastle United can be Champions League 'dark horses' on one condition

Didi Hamann has doubled down on his earlier prediction that Newcastle United could reach the latter stages of this year's Champions League. The former Magpies midfielder says the Toon will be dark horses to reach the latter stages of the competition, but knows they have to qualify from the group of death.

Defeat to Dortmund last time out saw Newcastle drop from top of Group F down to third, with the Bundesliga side leaping above them in the standings. PSG's win over AC Milan leaves the Italian side bottom of the group with the French champions now top of the pile.

That could all change again following this weeks round of Champions League fixtures. Eddie Howe's side head to Dortmund looking to exact revenge on Edin Terzic's side following the 1-0 win at St. James' Park last month.

Hamann told BoyleSports, who offer the latestPremier League odds: "Manchester City remain the benchmark in the Champions League. We'll see if United get out of the group, but I can't see them getting past the quarters.

"I can't see Arsenal getting past the semis, and if Newcastle get out of the group, they could be a dark horse. City can win it, of course, but I don't think that about United or Arsenal.

"I think Newcastle are a team who, if they reach the quarters, nobody will want to play if they've got a fit squad. I don't think Newcastle need any more motivation!

"They haven't been in the Champions League for so long. It's great to see them there, and the atmosphere against PSG was something else.

"They're so emotional and fanatical, and the fans crave success. It's great to see them back."