Newcastle boss Eddie Howe denies the season is 'over'.
A top four finish is beyond them this season.
But Howe said: "There are different ways of looking at things. That's one way and it's a very negative view.
"We've had some unbelievable experiences this year which we will benefit from in the future. We're 10th in the league but there is very little gap between us and the teams above us.
"We're determined to go well in the FA Cup so we have to be very positive about the situation. The players are very keen to do well in the second half of the season, and hopefully that will show."
Newcastle meet Fulham in the FA Cup today: "It's a big moment in our season, as the Sunderland game was, and the lads really responded to that challenge.
"This is an important competition for us, it takes on a new dynamic because of what's gone before. We're desperate to get our best form back, I think there were signs of that against Sunderland and Manchester City. We take this game very seriously."