Newcastle v Tottenham – Preview, Predictions, and Best Bets

Newcastle host Tottenham in the English Premier League on Saturday. Both sides are pushing for European qualification as Spurs chase the top four and the Magpies aim for the top six. The last six meetings between these teams have seen 31 goals.

Newcastle Form

Despite all their injuries, Eddie Howe’s team have rallied of late. After a tough run, they went on a streak of just one loss in eight matches – a 4-1 defeat at Arsenal. After a 3-0 win over Wolves at the end of that run, they lost successive fixtures. A 3-2 league defeat at Chelsea preceded a 2-0 FA Cup loss at Man City.

The last three games have seen them take seven points. They scored three goals after the 76th minute to turn a 3-1 deficit into a 4-3 home win over West Ham. A 1-1 home draw vs Everton saw them surrender the lead after a late penalty. Last Saturday, a defensive display yielded a 1-0 victory at Fulham thanks to a late winner.

Newcastle Team News

The injury list for the Toon is alarming. Nick Pope is injured in goal and five defenders are missing. Amongst those are Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, and Jamaal Lascelles. Emil Krafth and Lewis Hall are set to play at fullback again.

In midfield, there is no Lewis Miley, Joelinton, or Sandro Tonali. Joe Willock is also doubtful. Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson will play no part in the attack.

Newcastle Motivation

At home, Newcastle will play to win this match. They can’t use their wide-open style or Spurs could pick them off with ease.

A more pragmatic approach focused on counter attacks is expected.

Tottenham Form

Spurs’ strong good league form has seen ten wins in 15 fixtures. A 2-1 home loss to Wolves was a blip, before beating Crystal Palace 3-1 at home with three late goals. An impressive 4-0 win at Aston Villa followed.

Tottenham showed their defensive frailty in a surprise 3-0 defeat at Fulham and needed a late goal to finally see off Luton Town in a deserved 2-1 home victory. A 1-1 draw at West Ham preceded a 3-1 home victory over Nottingham Forest last time out.

Tottenham Team News

Spurs have a doubt over Richarlison due to a knee injury. He should be available to feature from the bench. Wingers Manor Solomon and Ryan Sessegnon are both ruled out.

Rodrigo Bentancur is pushing to replace Pape Matar Sarr in midfield for this one, but Yves Bissouma should keep his spot. Dejan Kulusevski may again have to settle for a place on the bench with Timo Werner preferred.

Tottenham Motivation

Spurs will play an open and attacking game and look to win this match. They’re only ahead of Aston Villa on goal difference right now.

A win here would put pressure on Villa as they travel to Arsenal. Three points here may be the pivotal moment in the top four race.

Key Stats

Newcastle’s last 7 home EPL matches have seen just two wins (lost 2, drew 3)

Newcastle’s last 6 meetings vs Tottenham have seen 31 goals (5.16 goals per game)

Tottenham have seen over 2.5 goals scored in 13 of their last 14 EPL matches games.

Tottenham have conceded in 21 of their last 24 matches (38 goals conceded)

Spurs have seen Both Teams to Score Yes in 12 of their last 14 EPL matches (30 scored, 22 conceded)

Verdict

This match should have goals to enjoy based on Spurs being so attacking and the Toon being ravaged by defensive injuries. Backing over 3.5 goals or Tottenham to leave with something looks wise.

Best Bet: Over 3.5 goals at 1.86

Value Bet: Tottenham win and both to score at 3.30

Safer Alternate Bet: Tottenham win/draw double chance + Over 1.5 goals at 1.66

James O'Connor

James is a football analyst who writes about the tactics of the PSL and English Premier League. He holds the UEFA A coaching licence and has previously worked for several clubs in analysis roles.Twitter: https://twitter.com/footy_analysis