Tottenham continue their chase of a Champions League spot when they welcome Blackburn to White Hart Lane on Sunday.
Harry Redknapp’s side are winless in four outings in all competitions, dropping to fifth in the English Premier League.
The in-form Newcastle United have moved into fourth, leaving Tottenham in danger of missing out on a Champions League place.
Tottenham, who are a point clear of Chelsea, are reportedly suffering from tiredness late in the campaign.
Strike duo Emmanuel Adebayor (13 league goals) and Jermain Defoe (10) have struggled to find form, while Gareth Bale has also struggled in 2012.
Since the start of February, Bale has managed just one assist and has failed to find the net.
But a clash against relegation-threatened Blackburn could be just what Tottenham need to give them a boost late in the season.
Tottenham, who could regain Adebayor from his hamstring strain, have won five straight league matches against Rovers, who are three points from safety.
Steve Kean’s men have needed the good work of striker Yakubu (16 league goals), but the Nigerian has netted in just two of his last 10 league outings.
Blackburn midfielder David Dunn said on Thursday three cup finals awaited his team if they wanted to avoid the drop.
“The Wigan game a week after is a really big one. I would say that the next three fixtures are three cup finals for us,” he told Sky Sports.
“I think this year everyone knows it has been a really testing season for us, both on and off the pitch.
“It is going to take a really big effort. At times on Saturday (in the 2-0 win over Norwich), we played OK. I didn’t think it was the best we’ve played this season but we got a result.
“Certainly at this stage of the season a much needed three points is crucial.”
A point would be a good result away at Tottenham before the vital relegation six-pointer against Wigan.
