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Redknapp backs Newcastle to stay up

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Jamie Redknapp has claimed that Newcastle United will definitely avoid relegation this season because of their defensive record.

The Magpies are currently 14th in the league but have conceded just 32 goals so far this campaign, the seventh lowest in the Premier League.

Speaking as a pundit on Sky Sports‘ coverage of the Toon Army’s clash with Tottenham on Saturday (Sky Sports Premier League, Saturday February 2nd, 12pm), the former Spurs man said: “They are going to stay up this year by having that good defensive record they’ve got there. You don’t want to sign too many players who will be expansive and leave you wide open.

“I don’t think they’ll change too much with the defensive unit they’ve got – two defensive midfield players in front of that back three gives them protection. If you can nick a goal through Rondon, then that’s how you stay up.”

OPINION

Newcastle should never be in the position they are at the moment to start with, but now, with Miguel Almiron in, you would back them to really pull away from the relegation zone. More than anything, Benitez is a top level organiser of players, as was shown against Manchester City in midweek, and if they can continue their fine defensive efforts, with the added threat of an extra creative player going the other way, then they could really push on and start to put a decent run together. The Magpies have been nicking games so far this season by the odd goal here and there, but with Almiton amongst their ranks then they can really start to shine when it matters most. He is just one man, and he won’t transform the team over night, but the fresh impetus he should give the Toon Army could be vital to any survival hopes.

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