Newcastle United have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, tipped by some for relegation at the start of the season, the Magpies sit 6th in the Premier League table.
However, their renaissance has not been the only surprise success story in the realm of European league football this year.
Indeed, across the various continental leagues, there are a number of overachieving underdogs that are causing a stir in their respective countries. In France, Montpellier, who finished 14th last season, are in direct competition with big spending Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title. While in Germany Borussia Monchengladbach are in a four way fight for the Bundesliga title after narrowly avoiding relegation last time out.
Levante have surprised everyone in Spain by breaking into the top four with a team full of ageing veterans, and Heerenveen, who Newcastle once defeated in the Uefa Cup in 2005, are in thick of a crowded Dutch title picture.
There are exceptions of course, the Italian Serie A has been dominated by a resurgent Juventus and Champions AC Milan, Udinese, spearheaded by the unrelenting talent of Antonio Di Natale, have also impressed. Scotland and Portugal continue to be closed shops, but overall it has been a season of surprises throughout Europe.
The 2011/2012 season is racing towards its conclusion, and there are only thirteen games left of this Premier League. Newcastle will be hoping to hit form at the right time and give themselves the opportunity to meet some of the continent's other unlikely front runners in European competition next season.
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