Paul Merson predicts surprise result for Newcastle United against Tottenham Hotspur

Newcastle, on the other hand, played 1-1 against Bournemouth last weekend after beating Southampton 1-0 in their first game of the season despite being outnumbered.

With both teams aiming for a place in the top four, the game promises to be an exciting competition.

And Paul Merson believes Newcastle will need an important win in front of their home crowd to build on their strong start to the season.

Paul Merson predicts Newcastle United’s win against Tottenham Hotspur

Although he described Spurs’ 4-0 win over Everton as “brilliant”, Merson believes Spurs’ away form is definitely a cause for concern.

“Tottenham got a great result when they beat Everton 4-0 last weekend, but I’m backing Newcastle to win this time,” Merson wrote in his column for Sportskeeda.

“It’s a real test for Spurs, especially considering they’re playing away.

“I’ve seen Tottenham destroyed in this particular away game in the past, so it’s a big test for them psychologically as well.”

The Arsenal legend identified Tottenham’s difficulties in the second half of their match against Leicester as a problem, adding that the boisterous atmosphere at St James’ Park would carry the home side to a 2-1 victory.

Read more: Ange Postecoglou confirms ‘strong’ Tottenham teenager will get chances after Richarlison injury

Merson continued: “The fans at St. James’ Park will definitely be looking forward to this game. There will be a different atmosphere there on Sunday.”

“Tottenham have a lot to lose here and if they emerge unscathed from this test it would be a huge advantage for them.

“I wasn’t really impressed with the second half performance against Leicester and that’s exactly why I think Newcastle can beat them in this tie.”

Both sides have injury concerns

Ange Postecoglou confirmed at a press conference that Dominic Solanke and Richarlison are out through injury, while Rodrigo Bentacur is back in contention.

Newcastle will be without Callum Wilson and Lewis Miley, and Joe Willock will face a race against time to prove his fitness after limping off the pitch in the Magpies’ Carabao Cup win over Nottingham Forest.

Read more: Paul Merson predicts who will win between Brighton and Arsenal on Saturday

The return of Sandro Tonali should be a huge boost for Eddie Howe, as the Italian international will make his first appearance for the club against Forest after serving his ten-month ban.

Although both teams may not have fully fit squads, they have enough quality in their ranks to ensure an exciting football match.

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