After a goalless draw with Manchester United last Sunday, Eddie Howe’s side defeated Everton in midweek to strengthen their hold on a top-six place. Spurs, on the other hand, were defeated 2-0 by the Red Devils in midweek.
The match with Frank Lampard’s side came at a cost for the Magpies however with news that Joelinton could miss the game with Antonio Conte’s side through injury.
On Joelinton, Howe said: "Joe’s the type of lad that’s very, very mentally strong, and can play with lots of different things, so when he said he had to come off at half-time, we knew, potentially, there was an issue there. Hopefully, it’s not serious. But, at this moment in time, it’s still slightly unclear.”
With Joelinton’s likely absence in mind, here, we take a look at the Newcastle United starting XI that Howe could name to face Tottenham Hotspur:
5. LB: Matt Targett
Burn’s fantastic form at left-back has kept Targett out of the team recently but the former Aston Villa man may be tasked with keeping players like Son Heung-Min quiet on Sunday. Photo: George Wood
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
There will undoubtedly be one man on the lips of Sunday’s away end with over 3,000 Newcastle fans hoping to see Bruno in the middle of Howe’s team. Photo: George Wood
7. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff has performed well in the base of the midfield but was afforded more freedom to get forward against Everton. It is clear Longstaff has the backing of his boss to perform wherever Howe asks him to play in his midfield three. Photo: Stu Forster
8. CM: Joe Willock
Joelinton’s injury absence means Willock may be asked to fill the void left by the Brazilian. Despite not yet managing to find the back of the net this season, Willock has been dangerous going forward and his drive in the middle may be needed to help the Magpies on the counter. Photo: Ian MacNicol