Paul Merson has warned Tottenham Hotspur their return to Premier League action will be "very difficult" against a resurgent Newcastle United. The former Arsenal playmaker claims to have been impressed by the Magpies under Eddie Howe.
Newcastle's nine game unbeaten run came to an end at Stamford Bridge in controversial circumstances, before defeat against relegation rivals Everton brought the Magpies back down to earth. Back-to-back defeats has not hampered the spirit in the dressing room ahead of the trip to London.
But, with Harry Kane in remarkable form, Merson believes he'll be the difference in the capital. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson said: "If Harry Kane turns up, Tottenham will win this game of football.
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WI was very surprised by Newcastle's performance against Chelsea and felt there was no chance they'd lose to Everton, but that was exactly what happened despite Everton going down to 10 men! This is a very difficult game for Tottenham as I've been really impressed with Newcastle under Eddie Howe, but the home side should win this one. Kane's future has once again come under the limelight and it'll be up to him this summer.
"Manchester City are reportedly in for Erling Haaland so they may not come back in for him, so could it probably be Manchester United? If they get Kane and Declan Rice, I think they can challenge next season under a good manager.
"Will he look to move on in search of trophies or stay at Tottenham to break Alan Shearer's goalscoring record? Something tells me he might stay - his mind is probably made up already!"
Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Newcastle United
