The full-back has been delighted with the way the Magpies have remained in contention for a Champions League spot with the likes of Chelsea and Tottenham.

And Simpson believes the Easter weekend could play a decisive outcome in the season with just six games remaining.

He said: "With 10 games to go, the manager (Alan Pardew) said the season starts now.

"We've got four wins on the bounce and we're keeping clean sheets so it couldn't have gone any better.

"We've looked solid at the back and dangerous going forward.

"We've been good through the season but this is the best spell and the best we've looked as a whole.

"We feel strong and as if we're going to win.

"This is a massive week for everyone in the Premier League and if you can get maximum points, you give yourself a good chance with five games to go.

"We've given ourselves a good chance to get five wins on the bounce."