Newcastle United Host Tottenham Hotspur in Crucial Premier League Clash
Tonight’s Premier League fixture at St James’ Park sees Newcastle United welcome Tottenham Hotspur in a match with significant implications. Newcastle, buoyed by a commanding 4-1 victory over Everton, aim to extend their strong form, while Spurs seek to halt a troubling run of losses. Kick-off is scheduled for 8.15pm GMT.
Newcastle have enjoyed recent dominance over Spurs, winning five of their last six league encounters. Their unbeaten midweek home league streak stretches back ten games, last losing such a fixture in 2021. This creates a tough environment for Tottenham, who have managed only one win in their last thirteen midweek league matches and are currently on a seven-game losing streak in these fixtures.
Team Changes and Line-ups
Newcastle make two changes from their Everton-win squad, introducing Sandro Tonali and Jacob Murphy. Bruno Guimarães and Anthony Elanga drop to the bench as a result. In contrast, Tottenham make four changes following a disappointing defeat to Fulham. Brennan Johnson, Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Cristian Romero return, with Archie Gray, Richarlison, Micky van de Ven, and João Palhinha omitted from the starting XI.
The starting line-ups are as follows:
- Newcastle United: Ramsdale, Livramento, Thiaw, Burn, Hall, Miley, Tonali, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy, Woltemade, Barnes.
- Tottenham Hotspur: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Danso, Udogie, Sarr, Bentancur, Bergvall, Kudus, Muani, Johnson.
Refereeing duties are managed by Thomas Bramall with VAR overseen by Paul Tierney.
Manager Insights and Match Context
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe highlighted the challenge and importance of a strong start. He remarked, “It’s a difficult game against a super-good team… Our intention, our body language, our energy is key.” Howe also noted squad rotation to manage player fitness during a congested schedule.
Tottenham’s Thomas Frank expressed cautious optimism despite recent setbacks. He stressed, “We need to bring energy, bravery, composure… I expect a super-tight game… but we believe we can get something from the game and win up here.”
Despite Spurs’ struggles and a tense atmosphere around the club, they maintain a narrow advantage over Newcastle in the Premier League table, sitting 12th with 18 points, just above Newcastle in 13th position also on 18 points but lower goal difference.
Match Progress and Early Action
The game opened with notable moments from both sides. Newcastle pressured early, with Hall and Woltemade creating chances. Tottenham responded with swift counters, and key contributions from Johnson and Udogie down the wings brought some relief to their defense.
Tottenham’s goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who has faced criticism recently, was tested on several occasions but the defense managed to contain Newcastle’s attacking movements.
The atmosphere inside St James’ Park remains vibrant, with Tottenham’s fans vocal from the Leazes end. The match promises a tightly contested battle, pivotal for both clubs as they seek momentum in the congested Premier League calendar.
As the second half approaches, both teams have their work cut out amid high stakes and a competitive environment.
Read more at: www.theguardian.com-
-
-
-
