‘They have to’ - Newcastle United set Champions League challenge by Alan Shearer’s No.9 successor

Papiss Cisse believes Newcastle United’s goal each season must be Champions League qualification.

A two-decade-long hiatus from the competition came to an emotional end a year ago when Eddie Howe guided the Magpies to a top-four finish. The “Group of Death” beckoned for Newcastle, with the tournament’s new kid on the block going to battle with Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan and finalists Borussia Dortmund.

United ultimately crashed out - finishing bottom of the group - but fine margins proved the difference against all three European heavyweights. Fans sampled UEFA’s flagship brand and lifelong memories but will be hoping for a better outcome should they qualify again.

That cannot happen this season, with Newcastle chasing a Europa League spot following a downturn in form. Their last appearance in the competition came 11 years ago when Alan Pardew’s side crashed out at the quarter-finals.

Former No.9 Cisse led the line and produced memorable moments against Anzhi Makhachkala and Benfica. Now watching from afar, the 38-year-old, yet to officially call time on his career, has challenged Newcastle to reach the Champions League regularly.

“I’m so happy to be here,” he told NUFC TV when attending Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Brighton. “Just to be inside the stadium is amazing to me. I’ve seen a lot of familiar faces. I’m so, so happy to be here. There are a lot of good memories for me. It’s amazing to see Newcastle play in Europe.

“The Champions League, they have to be there the whole time. This great team have to be in Europe every year. To see the black-and-white stripes and Geordie people means a lot to me.”