New, modern stadiums can become transfer market strains. Just ask Tottenham as they’ve not had a single signing all summer. The Spurs are not only the lone Premier League team not to have acquired someone, they are also the only Champions League team not to do so. That, along with the largest contingent of 2018 World Cup semi-finalists in Europe should make for a rocky opener at Newcastle’s inhospitable St. James’ Park on Saturday at 13:30 CET.
Newcastle – Tottenham Team News: Ins and Outs
These two teams actually met in the opening round last season as well, with Tottenham Hotspur winning 2-0 at Newcastle. Dele Alli, who scored one of the two goals, will not feature due to his late arrival following the World Cup. The same goes for Hugo Lloris, Harry Kane, Eric Dier, Danny Rose, Kieran Trippier, Jan Vertonghen and Moussa Dembele, although there is a small chance Lloris, Dier and/or Vertonghen suit up.
Bet on Newcastle vs Tottenham with bet365
With Toby Alderweireld’s future up in the air and Juan Foyth injured, Davinson Sanchez might be forced to line up next to Ben Davies, with Walker-Peters and Aurier as the side backs. Luckily for Mauricio Pochettino, Christian Eriksen, Erik Lamela, Son Heung-Min and Lucas Moura are available. Fernando Llorente and Moussa Sissoko should start as well.
The story for Newcastle is the same as it was a year ago. Rafa Benitez is still looking for support from owner Mike Ashley and still has to deal with failed promises. He will mix in a couple of new signings, such as Salomon Rondon, who was part of loan swap for Dwight Gayle with West Bromwich, in a mostly familiar starting lineup. Ciaran Clark should get the nod ahead of Fabian Schar in place of the injured Florian Lejeune next to Jamaal Lascelles at centre back.
Newcastle – Tottenham Bet365 Odds
Player to watch – Lucas Moura
Lucas Moura looked great in pre-season and will have a tremendous opportunity to assert himself with Son Heung-Min leaving on August 18 to be with his South Korea teammates during the 2018 Asian games.