Let's face it, a midweek trip up to St. James' Park for a Carabao Cup fourth round tie is far from ideal.
In terms of ties we didn't want after easing past League One Doncaster Rovers, Newcastle away would've been right up there. Alas, Thomas Frank's squad will visit the holders on Wednesday night, having returned to winning ways in what's becoming their trademark functional fashion.
Our taste of glory last season has only whet the appetites of Lilywhite members, and another cup run certainly wouldn't be scoffed at during Frank's first at the helm. Win at St. James' for the first time since Nuno Espírito Santo was in charge, and many will believe our name is written on the Carabao Cup.
A pile-up of fixtures between the October and November breaks means rotation must be considered by the manager here, and this is the team he could pick for our fourth round clash.
Tottenham predicted lineup vs Newcastle (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Antonín Kinsky (GK) – Guglielmo Vicario has proved his worth over the past ten days, reasserting his status as Tottenham's No. 1. Kinsky, for the time being, will be limited to appearances in the domestic cups.
Djed Spence (RB) – Frank can't afford to run Pedro Porro into the ground, so it'd be wise for him to get a breather on Wednesday. Spence has primarily played down the left, but will get the chance to start on his natural side.
Kevin Danso (CB) – After an excellent performance on Merseyside, Danso is a sure bet to retain his spot with Cristian Romero, Kota Takai and Radu Drăgușin.
João Palhinha (CB) – I just watched a four-minute compilation of Palhinha's defensive actions this season, and I've never felt more alive. He'll offer Micky van de Ven respite by slipping into the backline, as he did in the third round.
Archie Gray (LB) – I'd love to see Gray in midfield, and we probably will at some point on Wednesday. Our limited availability at full-back means the teenager will likely start at left-back on Tyneside.
Midfielders
Rodrigo Bentancur (CM) – Frank's faith in Bentancur knows no bounds, but he was good on Sunday and he's a useful contributor to our set-piece utopia.
Lucas Bergvall (CM) – Hopefully, the manager gives the Swede a chance in a deeper midfield role, given his struggles in a more advanced position as of late.
Pape Matar Sarr (AM) – It's not been explained why Sarr, who was so important to the Lilywhites at the very start of the season, has barely played a sporadic role in recent weeks. Nevertheless, the Senegalese midfielder should make his first start since 30 September on Wednesday.
Forwards
Brennan Johnson (RW) – Mohammed Kudus has to earn some respite, so Johnson, who played with some assertiveness on Sunday, will start down the right flank. He was excellent in the previous round.
Mathys Tel (ST) – It's a toss-up between Tel and Richarlison. The Brazilian had an impact off the bench at the weekend, but I just think Tel and his sharpshooting may offer us a little bit more. Randal Kolo Muani will be preserved for Chelsea.
Wilson Odobert (LW) – Odobert was an unused substitute at Everton, so I'd be stunned if he isn't the team on Wednesday.