I'm a Geordie but I think this will be tough for the Toon!

BRIDGES: LEEDS CAN BEAT THE ODDS BY WINNING AGAINST MY BOYHOOD TEAM

- JAN MURTAGH

MICHAEL BRIDGES believes Newcastle face one of their toughest tests of the season at Elland Road despite Leeds' dreadful form.

Leeds have picked up just one point from their last six games and defeat on Saturday would leave Premier League survival hanging by a thread.

But their former striker feels that with Sam Allardyce at the helm, they could turn the formbook upside down and shock Champions League-chasing Toon.

And the Geordie, who had a brief spell at St James' Park under Sir Bobby Robson, is hoping Leeds beat his hometown club.

"Normally, I'd want Newcastle to win every game but on this occasion, I hope Leeds do," said Bridges. "Their need is greater.

"The way I see it, Newcastle can afford to lose this one and still finish in the top four.

"But for Leeds, the situation is becoming critical.

"It's almost become a mustwin bearing in mind their remaining fixtures and results elsewhere over the past week.