The Premier League’s best attack comes up against its meanest defence at Eastlands today, but Newcastle are determined to be more than just spoilers, writes Stuart Rayner.

IF the bookmakers are to be believed, 47,000 people will watch a game of defence-versus-attack at Eastlands this afternoon.

The Premier League table says there is little between Newcastle United and today’s hosts Manchester City. Anyone who knows anything about English football knows that is not true.

While the Magpies’ net outlay this summer was negligible, City continue to spend money like they are paying off Greece’s debts.

Newcastle had to leave their famous No.9 shirt vacant this season because they could not buy a striker worthy of it. Instead, a free transfer is top-scoring with eight goals.

Meanwhile at Eastlands, a £47m centre-forward and former captain is sunning himself in Buenos Aires and had he not made such a song and dance of it, Manchester City would scarcely have noticed.

City being rich is hardly news. They have been rolling in it ever since Sheikh Mansour took over more than three years ago. But this season, they are a different proposition.

Since the Eastlands caretaker had to hunt out the key to the trophy cabinet and the tannoy announcer was sent for a CD of the Champions League anthem, the shackles have come off. The caution which was Roberto Mancini’s trademark has been cast aside and suddenly the big boys are punching their weight on the field too.

The result has been 39 goals in 11 league games – the best tally in the division. Just as well Newcastle’s is the meanest defence.

“We know why they have a great attack, because they have a lot of top players in the final third of the pitch,” reasons Jonás Gutiérrez, one of the key components of Newcastle’s defensive set-up.

“We have the best defence because all of the team is working hard when we lose the ball. That is important. That is the key point for us.”

Just as City’s avalanche of goals is not based on an attack-at-all-costs policy, so Newcastle cannot afford to park the bus this afternoon. Top-level football is a little bit more complicated than that.

“When you play the big teams you know you can still have opportunities,” says Gutiérrez (pictured right), whose side’s next two games are against Manchester United and Chelsea.

“They will keep the ball and you have to defend well, wait for your chance and look for spaces. And when you have your chance, don’t miss because they will not miss theirs.”