Sports | Match Preview | Newcastle vs Spurs
Newcastle return to St James’ Park for the second time in five days as Tottenham attempt to dethrone them in the League Cup fourth round.
Charge Up The Champions
Tottenham haven’t lost a single game away from home in any competition this season, and the Magpies will be eager to end that streak after 90 minutes – a golden opportunity for Eddie Howe’s side to remove a rival from the competition.
The electric atmosphere at St James’ is expected to surge once again and unleash the beasts within the home side’s players. Howe’s Magpies boast an excellent record against Spurs in recent seasons – winning each of their last five meetings, including a league double last term.
Triumph for Thomas Frank
Under new leadership – with the appointment of Thomas Frank before the season began – Tottenham look a much different outfit, a defence finally in sync with the attack. Frank has built a compact, disciplined squad that will cause Newcastle far more problems than they’re used to facing on home soil.
Spurs currently sit third in the Premier League – nine places above Newcastle in twelfth – after an excellent start to Thomas Frank’s reign. The League Cup holders, though, have shown success in knockout football this season; after two wins on the bounce in the Champions League and a comfortable victory over Bradford City in the previous round.
Tottenham’s Tricks
Newcastle will look to bread down Spurs low-block with piercing counterattacks, but Frank’s side will likely remain resolute, forcing the hosts to inject life into the game – something the Magpies have often struggled to do this campaign.
It’s set to be a tight affair, with both goalkeepers certain to be tested. With packed fixture lists for both clubs, squad rotation may play a key role. As Newcastle’s form begins to return, they’ll hope to soar past Spurs once more – and move one step closer to keeping the trophy on Tyneside for another season.
