Eddie Howe on Newcastle v Spurs top-four clash: 'It's a huge moment in our season'

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has described Sunday's clash with Tottenham Hotspur as “a huge moment in our season” as the battle for Champions League qualification heads towards its climax.

The Magpies currently sit fourth in the Premier League table – the final place that secures qualification to European club football's premier competition next season – three points and one place ahead of Spurs but with a game in hand on the North London club.

Victory as St James' Park would mean Newcastle move back up to third, ahead of Manchester United on goal difference with the Red Devils on FA Cup semi-final duty this weekend when they face Brighton at Wembley Stadium.

It would also put a healthy six-point gap between them and Spurs with seven games to go, which makes the game on Tyneside a crucial one for both clubs.

“It’s a huge game for us. No denying that at this stage of the season with the games running out,” said Howe on Friday.

“We’re playing one of our competitors in the league so it’s a big moment in our season. We’re pleased to be at home and we hope to feel the force of the crowd.

“It’s what we crave as professionals. You want the big games and you want it to mean something. We’re determined to express ourselves in the best way possible. We don’t want to play with any fear or restraints and we want to give the best us.”

Last week was a miserable one for both sides as Newcastle were comfortably beaten 3-0 at Aston Villa – who could potentially move level on points with Tottenham this weekend – while Spurs lost 3-2 at home to struggling Bournemouth.

It was a rare blip for Howe's side, who have lost only four times this campaign and have to best defensive record in the top-flight.

“It was an uncharacteristic