Tottenham Hotspur could secure Premier League safety with a game to spare after West Ham were left on the brink of relegation following a 3-1 defeat at Newcastle United. That result kept Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the bottom three, missing a crucial opportunity to put pressure on Spurs. Now, Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham travel to Chelsea on Tuesday night needing just one point to all but guarantee their top-flight status for next season.
Relegation Battle Heats Up
Spurs have a vastly superior goal difference compared to their relegation rivals, who looked resigned to their fate after the loss at St James' Park. With Wolves and Burnley already relegated, the final relegation spot is between Tottenham and West Ham. Here are the key permutations.
Tottenham Hotspur
Position: 17th | Played: 36 | Points: 38 | Goal Difference: -9
Remaining fixtures:
- 19 May - Chelsea (A)
- 24 May - Everton (H)
One point would surely be enough for Spurs, as their goal difference is 13 better than West Ham's with two games to go. A win at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday would confirm safety before the final day, after which they host an Everton side with little to play for.
West Ham United
Position: 18th | Played: 37 | Points: 36 | Goal Difference: -22
Remaining fixtures:
- 24 May - Leeds (H)
West Ham have just one game left and could be relegated before they play it. If Tottenham lose both of their final matches, West Ham must beat Leeds to have any hope. However, if Spurs secure a point in either fixture, West Ham would need a massive goal difference swing, which seems out of reach.
The pressure is on as De Zerbi expects the relegation battle to go down to the last minute. Tottenham's fate is in their own hands, while West Ham must rely on results going their way.
