Tottenham Hotspur vs Newcastle United: Preview

For the second time in as many years, Tottenham Hotspur have a very good chance of making the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup. However, Spurs fans will be flocking to the Lane in hope that this year’s last eight tie doesn’t end like the last one.

At this stage last season, two late West Ham United goals dumped Tottenham out of the League Cup in Tim Sherwood’s first game in charge at White Hart Lane. Ironically, his predecessor in Andre Vilas Boas had targeted this competition as a winnable one.

One year on, and a lot has changed in north London, but the objective hasn’t- break into the top four and win a trophy. We have a good chance in this competition, and it’s one Maurico Pochettino should be grasping with both hands.

We come into this match in high spirits after yet another late winner on the road, but it’s time our home performances improved, starting here.

Whilst we’ve been consistent on our travels, White Hart Lane isn’t as daunting an away day as it has been in recent years. Newcastle have already beaten us once this season at home, and, like with West Ham last year, the thought of two home defeats to this side is quite sickening.

Source: tottenhamhotspur.com

So, how will we fare on Wednesday?

The squad has returned to full strength, with Kyle Naughton and Emmanuel Adebayor both back in training. Ahead of a hectic festive period, expect near-enough wholesale changes from the Swansea game.

As mentioned, Adebayor has returned to England and, more importantly, to the squad. Roberto Soldado offered absolutely nothing against Besiktas and Swansea, remaining static in both fixtures. Whilst some fans had written off Ade earlier this season, at least he offers some sort of presence.

Newcastle United have gone nearly 60 years without a trophy. 60 years. Alan Pardew’s side are going well in the Premier League and have been a thorn in the side of some big names, including us and Chelsea- the Magpies still have a good chance of ending this barren spell this season.

On the other hand, Newcastle will undoubtedly have one eye on Saturday’s Tyne-Wear derby. Their squad is already stretched, and could really do without any further injuries.

Either way, this is a game Tottenham should be winning- no excuses. By 10 o’clock on Wednesday night, we should be League Cup semi-finalists.

Predicted XI: