However, he knows that fortunes can change quickly, as they have for last season's fourth placed side.
During a press conference, Postecoglou said: "I guess I gave that as an example of one of the reasons why I don't think it should be the end point or some avenue you think will get you to be successful for a sustained period just because you have achieved that.
"Certainly there is a cautionary tale there that getting into the Champions League also means greater demands. Demands on players, demands on the squad and you have to be geared up for it or else it can affect all parts of your season.
"It has been tough on Newcastle this year because the progress last year was fantastic. The reward for that was Champions League and this year for whatever reason it has made it a really challenging season on all fronts for them."