Tottenham will travel to Newcastle next weekend for another crucial Premier League game against against a direct rival. The Magpies have had an underwhelming season compared to last time out, but they are fighting to at least secure a spot in Europe again ahead of next season.
Spurs jumped into fourth for the first time since early February this weekend, beating Nottingham Forest comfortably to go ahead of Aston Villa who dropped points to Brentford. There is a chance that a fifth-placed team might still get Champions League football but Ange Postecoglou will want to make sure of it with a fourth-placed finish.
The Australian manager has been keen to underplay the significance of being amongst the top four teams in the Premier League, but Spurs as a club will be desperate for the added financial rewards it brings.
Both Postecoglou and Eddie Howe need a strong finish to the season with Newcastle eighth on the league table but just two points behind sixth-placed Manchester United as the race for Europa League football hits up.
There is general sympathy for Howe who has lost a lot of key players to injury and in the case of Sandro Tonali, who was brought in to play a key part, suspension. But the Premier League is brutal and results are the most important thing as both teams have found out lately.
So ahead of what is expected to be another riveting game at St James’ Park, below is the list of players who have been ruled out and those who are a doubt.
1. Sven Botman
He has a knee problem and has been ruled out of the game.
2. Manor Solomon
Another who has had a knee problem and won't be involved.
3. Jamaal Lascelles
Jamaal has also been battling a knee issue.
4. Richarlison
Missed this weekend's game due to a knee problem but could return for the Newcastle game. A doubt none the less.