Tottenham Hotspur have taken a huge step toward Premier League survival, and former England striker Gary Lineker now believes the momentum has firmly swung in their favour.
Spurs climbed out of the relegation zone with a crucial 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, a result that could prove decisive as the season enters its final stretch. First-half goals from Conor Gallagher and Richarlison sealed back-to-back league wins for the first time since August, lifting the club into 17th place—just above the drop.
Momentum shifts in survival race
The win, combined with West Ham’s heavy 3-0 defeat to Brentford, has dramatically reshaped the relegation picture. With Nottingham Forest also moving closer to safety after beating Chelsea, the battle to avoid the final relegation spot now appears to be a straight fight between Tottenham and West Ham.
Just weeks ago, Spurs were widely tipped to go down. But according to Lineker, that narrative has now flipped.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, he suggested Tottenham are now in pole position to survive, largely due to their slight points advantage and a marginally more favourable run-in.
Fixture list could decide everything
Lineker pointed to West Ham’s difficult remaining fixtures as a key factor. Matches against top opposition could leave them vulnerable, especially with pressure mounting late in the campaign.
Tottenham’s schedule is far from easy either, with clashes against Leeds United, Chelsea, and Everton still to come. However, the belief is that Spurs now hold the edge—if they can maintain their current level.
Leeds clash now season-defining
The next match against Leeds United is shaping up to be a pivotal moment. While Leeds are close to securing safety, they are not mathematically clear and will arrive with their own urgency.
For Tottenham, it represents an opportunity to build momentum and potentially create a decisive gap between themselves and the drop zone.
Belief returning at the right time
Beyond results, Spurs’ performance at Villa Park showed renewed intensity and belief. The team looked sharper, more aggressive, and fully aware of what is at stake.
Recent wins, including a confidence-boosting result at Wolves, suggest the squad may have found form at the perfect moment.
Survival within reach
Tottenham’s fate remains in their own hands—but only just. With three games left, every result carries massive weight.
For now, though, the mood has shifted. From relegation favourites to survival contenders, Spurs have given themselves a fighting chance—and, according to Lineker, they may now be the team most likely to stay up.
