4 best-promoted sides in recent Premier League history

#3 Newcastle United 10th (2017-18)

Newcastle United

Newcastle United banished the demons of their second relegation in a decade in style. They did struggle for large parts of the seasons but Rafael Benitez's coaching skills shone through. Backed in the summer following a convincing season in the Championship, Newcastle United picked up some impressive wins against Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. They went on many winless streaks but the belief never wavered.

There were no standout goal-scorers but Ayoze Perez and Matt Ritchie proved to be key men, constantly haranguing the opposition with their pace and direct running. Newcastle had been expected to stay up comfortably and they did in the end. For the first time in many years, the fan unrest and the protests against owner Mike Ashley seemed to have subsided.

Injuries and form meant Benitez used three different goalkeepers, a highly unusual situation. Dwight Gayle, Joselu and Jacob Murphy were used largely off the bench. Despite the stop-start season, Newcastle always looked as if they were in control. Partially due to the poor form of opponents. That is unimportant as all teams play the same season, conditions and rules.

The end of the season called for reinvestment. As it is now known, Newcastle had a similar season last time around and are once again lower-mid table. Record books never lie and finishing eight points clear of Swansea City in 18th was still an impressive feat. The pressure of the goldfish bowl situation at Newcastle, combined with sky-high expectations make it difficult to hit higher targets. Especially in the absence of greater investment.