Tottenham winger Gareth Bale feels they face a tough opening season test against Newcastle United.

Spurs are at St James' Park for the new season kickoff.

"It will be difficult, especially away from home, but it's a good early test for us," Bale told the Spurs website. "It's important to get off to a good start.

"Newcastle had a fine season. No-one really expected them to be right up there and maintain it throughout the season.

"They've some great players and it will be a case of keeping those players quiet and trying to impose our game plan."

Gareth felt team spirit was Newcastle's greatest asset last season. "They all worked hard, they worked together and that counts a lot in football," he added.