Newcastle host Tottenham in a potential classic

Newcastle United welcome Tottenham Hotspurs in a clash that could well decide the future of Martin Jol. Tottenham have been a shadow of their former self and will need all cylinders firing to take on the pride of Newcastle who are flying in the league.

Tottenham supporters have been asking themselves where it all went wrong this year. Five successive losses have put them near the relegation zone, although many predict they will bounce back and press for a European place. But if they want to make a run it will need to start now, as most of their rivals have a hefty point's advantage. Their plight will not be helped by Newcastle who is in fine form. Newcastle has a strike force to be reckoned with and an organised midfield with strength behind it. Tottenham boast the strongest attack outside of the top four, but the rest of the team is performing well below standard and injuries are taking their toll. Tottenham will be hard pressed to be able to find the extra gear that has been eluding them all season, but if they can find it, this will be a clash of the highest quality. On previous form, however, this could be a one-sided result

On the other hand, Newcastle fans could not be more delighted with their team's progress this season. They lay only a couple of points off the pace, and if they could shake off the famous inconsistency, the Toon Army may have a team in Europe next year. Their much improved attack has provided an avenue to goal both home and away, and while they haven't exactly set the world on fire yet, they definitely have the talent to go far in this league campaign.

The midfield will determine this clash, with both teams boasting high class attacks. If Newcastle can control the midfield it will go a long way to claiming another win at St James Park.

Tottenham's sparkling form of recent years would indicate they are a chance in this contest. But Newcastle has the form on the board and the intent to do some damage to the weakened Tottenham. I like Newcastle to win what should be an exciting contest.

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