Chris Sutton, Mark Lawrenson and Chris Sutton are all backing Newcastle United to win the battle of the Champions League hopefuls when they take on Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. It's a game that could well be deemed a 'six pointer' given the importance of the tie.
Coincidentally, a win would move Eddie Howe's side six points clear of Spurs with a game in hand over their opponents. However, defeat to Aston Villa in their last outing has seen some pundits raise questions over Newcastle's top-four credentials.
A good result on Sunday would be a poignant reminder of the Magpies ambitions this season but also put any nerves to bed. Newcastle have lost just once on home soil this season against Liverpool and have been imperious at St. James' Park.
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Here's what the pundits have had to say heading into the big game this weekend.
Chris Sutton
Sutton told the BBC: "I know Tottenham have got Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, who is coming into form, but I am not backing them any more. It has been a strange old season for Spurs and I don't think they will get in the Champions League places from here.
"They don't deserve to. I feel like we are approaching the stage of the season where all that Tottenham fans will be hoping for is that Arsenal don't win the Premier League but, for now, Spurs still have a chance of making the top four.
"So this is a big one. Newcastle will take the game to Tottenham, and I can see it being quite open. I also think the Magpies will bounce back from their defeat by Aston Villa, and they know they can take a big step towards the Champions League themselves if they win this one."
Prediction: 3-1
Mark Lawrenson
Lawrenson told Paddy Power: "Newcastle disappeared last week which is most unusual for them because even when they don’t play well they’re usually really difficult to beat. Tottenham did what Tottenham do. Spursy as we all know them.
"I’m going to go for Newcastle to win. Obviously it’s a big game for both team but I just don’t know what happens with Tottenham from one week to the next, I really don’t."
Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham.
Paul Merson
Merson told SportsKeeda: "Eddie Howe has been brilliant for Newcastle but if they keep losing games like they did last week, things could change. They've got to get into the top four now. A couple of big defeats and the board will start wondering how far Eddie Howe can take this team.
"This is a massive match. Both teams had absolute shockers last week. I thought Tottenham were definitely going to beat Bournemouth. Their season's on the line, and if they lose this game, that'll be it. If they lose to Newcastle, they'll be lucky if they finish in fifth place.
"If Newcastle lose this game, alarm bells will start ringing - they need to raise their standards. Eddie Howe needs a big result and I think they'll pull it off against Tottenham this week."
Prediction: Newcastle United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
