‘I fancy’ - Pundits give controversial predictions for Newcastle United vs Tottenham Hotspur

The pundits are torn over whether Newcastle United will repeat last year’s masterclass - but supporters should expect goals
Charlie Bennett
By Charlie Bennett
Published 13th Apr 2024, 06:15 BST

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Newcastle United thrashed Tottenham Hotspur 6-1 this time last yearNewcastle United thrashed Tottenham Hotspur 6-1 this time last year
Newcastle United thrashed Tottenham Hotspur 6-1 this time last year

Newcastle United welcome a resurgent Tottenham Hotspur to St James’ Park aiming to repeat last season’s 6-1 heroics.

A year ago, the Magpies were the team on the up, taking on a managerless Spurs who had just sacked Antonio Conte. Fast forward to the present and an injury-stricken Newcastle are taking on a Tottenham outfit fighting for the Champions League.

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Ange Postecoglou’s men thrashed United 4-1 in December’s reverse fixture but returning to Tyneside presents a mental obstacle to overcome. Both sides have plenty to play for in what should be a firecracker of an early kick-off at St James’ Park. 

But what do the experts think? How do those who played at the highest level rate Newcastle’s chances? After all, the Magpies have lost just two of their last 10 league games despite the crippling absentee list. Here is a round-up of how the pundits expect the game to pan out.

Chris Sutton

“What a game this will be,” told BBC Sport. “I was at Newcastle's 4-3 win over West Ham at the end of March and I am expecting a few goals this time too.

“I didn't see Newcastle's win at Fulham last week coming, but it was a great result and it means they are looking up the table now, with their sights set on sixth place. Tottenham's target is to finish fourth and they won't settle for a point here. It is going to be very close but I have got a feeling they will edge it.”

Prediction: Newcastle 2-3 Tottenham

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Paul Merson

“Newcastle United got a great result against Fulham but I can’t recall them playing particularly well,” Merson wrote for SportsKeeda. “Tottenham, on the other hand, were outstanding against Nottingham Forest. At St. James’ Park, I fancy Newcastle, so I’m going for a 2-1 home win.

Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham

Mark Lawrenson 

“This is a biggie, it should be a good game,” he told Paddy Power. “I’m going to go for Spurs because of the way they play and the fact that Newcastle are not great at the back. They concede a lot of goals and they’ve got plenty of injuries.”

Prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Tottenham

Related topics:Tottenham Hotspur

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