Newcastle United v Tottenham: Premier League match preview

A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at St James’ Park

Alan Pardew needs to be backed financially by Newcastle owner Mike Ashley, according to Rob Lee (GETTY IMAGES)

Newcastle have slowly declined since they were sitting in fifth, three points from fourth, after their 18 round victory against Stoke in December. Since then, Alan Pardew’s troops have lost five out of seven league games, sold Yohan Cabaye to PSG and Director of Football, Joe Kinnear, has been sacked.

In other words, it is business as usual at the northern giants. Last outing, Newcastle lost 3-0 away to an Eden Hazard inspired Chelsea side. What hurt more was the 3-0 home loss in the derby against rivals Sunderland. The Magpies are currently eight but, considering the form of Everton and Manchester United, could advance in the table if they manage to string a run together.

Visiting St James’ Park are Tottenham, who after the weekend’s win over Everton are fifth. What is remarkable about Spurs this season is that despite their poor goal difference, currently on 0, they remain firmly in the running for fourth and Champions League qualification. Their home record has slightly let them down but they will be encouraged by their excellent record on the road so far. They will look to reinvigorated striker Emmanuel Adebayor to provide the firepower just as he did against Everton at the weekend.

KICK-OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS:

Tottenham 0 Newcastle 1 (Remy), Premier League, November 2013

Tottenham 2 (Bale 2) Newcastle 1 (Gouffran), Premier League, February 2013

Newcastle 2 (Ba, Ben Arfa) Tottenham 1 (Defoe), Premier League, August 2012

STATS:

The French influence is considerable at Newcastle. Loic Remy, Yohan Cabaye, Yoan Gouffran and Hatem Ben Arfa have scored 26 of the Magpies’ 32 league goals this season.

The departing Jermain Defoe is Tottenham’s leading goalscorer this season with 10, just one of them coming in the league.

Newcastle United have lost their last three Barclays Premier League games at St James Park without scoring.

Spurs have scored on each of their last eight Premier League visits to St James Park.

ODDS:

Newcastle to win: 3.2

Tottenham to win: 2.3

Draw: 3.5

TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10.35pm