Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov believes his side must beat Newcastle to keep the pressure on Chelsea.
United enjoyed a classy win over their rivals in the Community Shield last weekend, but Berbatov believes that their earlier efforts will come to naught if the Red Devils cannot beat Newcastle to get the three points.
"It's always good to beat a top team like Chelsea," the Bulgarian said to United Review.
"They are likely to be our main rivals for the title and the victory definitely gave everyone - the players, the staff and the fans - a big lift. It was a tough match, but we deserved to win.
"It will count for nothing, though, if we don't start the league season with a win against Newcastle on Monday."
He is aware of the threat that Chris Hughton's men will pose.
"We know it's going to be a difficult game and even though a few of the players were away last week with their national teams, we have prepared well and we've been training hard every day to make sure we start the season with three points."
Berbatov is not unfamiliar with Magpie boss Hughton, having worked with him at his previous club.
"I worked with their manager Chris Hughton at Tottenham, and he's a great guy and a great coach. I wish him good luck for the season - just not on Monday!"