Pundit Paul Merson has predicted the result of Newcastle’s clash with Brighton at St James’ Park for Sportskeeda.
Eddie Howe’s men are on a seven-game unbeaten Premier League run after the 2-0 win over Brentford last time out, which took them above their hosts in the table.
This is another big game but Newcastle have the momentum despite injuries to Kieran Trippier and Allan Saint-Maximin and Merson expects them to collect a win.
Merson’s prediction
“If you looked at Newcastle’s fixtures four weeks ago, you’d have identified the game against Brighton as one of their hardest games, but now it looks like the easiest one on paper.
“Brighton have hit a bit of a brick wall in recent weeks, while the Magpies are on a roll and could be utterly and completely safe if they get three more points on the board.
“As I said earlier, I wouldn’t have fancied them for even a point a month ago, but now, I can’t see Newcastle not winning this game. The crowd will be right behind them, which is always the case at St. James’ Park, so I expect them to get maximum points in front of their own fans.
“Eddie Howe has done a great job since taking charge – I think he’ll be kept at the club and backed adequately this summer once again after an impressive haul in the January transfer window. Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Brighton.”
Newcastle would go five points behind Brighton with a game in hand if they won here and Merson’s optimism is justified on recent form.
That is despite the fact that Newcastle have been in grave relegation danger for much of the campaign and Brighton have been lauded for their quality and tipped to make an outside push for Europe.
That is testament to the job that Howe has done and Merson is right to praise the man who has pulled the club together and inspired this recent resurgence.
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