Newcastle United welcome Brighton And Hove Albion to St James’ Park in their next fixture. The Magpies are in immense form following the 2-0 win against Brentford.
The win now makes the Toon unbeaten in seven games and haven’t lost in the league so far in 2022. They’ve only conceded three Premier League goals since the new year; the least in the division.
Brighton currently sit in 10th place and are having a good season under Graham Potter. However, they’ve only picked up a point from their last five games. This dip in form makes it an ideal time to be playing them.
From certain relegation to now being tipped for survival, Howe has turned Newcastle around
Boss Eddie Howe has really turned things around at Newcastle. His side now sits 14th in the Premier League – when he took over they were in the relegation zone.
Five new faces arrived in January who have given the side a lift. Additionally, the players that were present when Howe arrived have been transformed under him.
Joelinton has gone from £40million (BBC Sport) flop up front to an essential player in midfield. There’s a strong case to be made that he’s Newcastle’s player of the season so far.
Furthermore, Joe Willock has scored two goals in two games, netting against West Ham and Brentford. He struggled initially following his permanent move to St James’ Park, but now he’s starting to look like the Willock of last season.
Jonjo Shelvey has dramatically improved too. The midfield three of Shelvey, Willock and Joelinton have been a strong trio. It’s made it difficult for new boy Bruno Guimaraes to get significant minutes so far in black and white.
The Magpies are a side that no one is taking lightly. Brighton and Graham Potter know that they will have a real challenge on their hands. The Toon have more fight and are willing to go toe to toe with anyone.
They managed to get a point off top four challenging West Ham a couple of weeks ago. So a clash against out of form Brighton will bring a lot of positivity in the Toon camp.
Newcastle have never beaten Brighton in the Premier League, but they might have the perfect chance this weekend.
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