Brighton (H) Pre-match thoughts, team news, possible line-ups & score prediction

Things really are looking up at Newcastle United.

Seven games unbeaten, another win last weekend, Eddie Howe nominated for the Premier League's Manger of the Month award and a sell out crowd expected at St James' Park as Wor Flags prepare to extend their pre-match displays to the East Stand!

With visitors Brighton losing each of their last three league games and us enjoying our best run of form since 2011, all the momentum is with us.

However, it might surprise you to learn that we have NEVER beaten Brighton in the Premier League. Not only that, we've never actually scored a goal against them in all four of our meetings at St James' Park!

So, history isn't on our side in that respect, but this is a new era at Newcastle United. A meticulous manager and a squad that's much fitter, full of confidence and up for the fight.

There's a real sense of belief within the group and a genuine feeling that the wind is in our sails in this relegation fight, making this another huge opportunity to pull clear - especially when the likes of Watford, Burnley, Leeds and Everton face tough games this weekend.

Team news

Allan Saint-Maximin trained for the first time on Friday according to Eddie Howe, meaning he's facing another late fitness test to determine whether or not he's ready to return.

Elsewhere, Emil Krafth looks likely to keep his place at right-back, meaning Javier Manquillo could remain on the bench along with Bruno Guimaraes.

Kieran Trippier (foot), Callum Wilson (calf) and Matt Ritchie (knee) remain out, while Brighton look set to be without Adam Webster and Enock Mwepu - with Adam Lallan also tough and go.

Predicted line ups

(4-3-2-1): Dubravka – Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett – Willock, Shelvey, Joelinton – Murphy, Fraser - Wood.

Martin Dubravka – Been rock solid in recent weeks, racking up his third clean sheet in our last five games last weekend.

Emil Krafth – For me, Manquillo is our best right-back when Trippier is out, however I can't see Howe dropping Krafth after the Swede put in a solid display in that 2-0 win at Brentford?

Fabian Schar – One of many much improved players. Was brilliant at both ends last time out and has nailed down his place in Howe's XI as a result.

Dan Burn – The 6ft 7' giant has barely put a foot wrong since he arrived from Brighton and will start against his former side here.

Matt Targett – The Aston Villa loanee has been a revelation so far, defending admirably and striking up a lively partnership with Ryan Fraser last weekend.

 Joelinton – I'm running out of superlatives for our bulldozing Brazilian. Scored the goal his performances have deserved last weekend and is one of the first named on the teamsheet now.

Jonjo Shelvey – He's been a steady Eddie and more under Howe, adding discipline and consistency to his game. Hopefully we see more of that here against a solid Brighton side.

Joe Willock – A confident Joe Willock is a joy to watch and a real goal threat. After two goals in his last two games, it'd be great to see him bag his first at St James' Park since he signed permanently!

Jacob Murphy – If Saint-Maximin is fit, he should always start above Murphy. However, the fact ASM has only just returned to training means Murphy could be handed another start here.

Ryan Fraser – Put in one of his best performances for NUFC when playing down the left last weekend, so it'll be interesting to see if he's paired up against Brighton right-back Tariq Lamptey.

Chris Wood – Desperately needs a goal, but is doing plenty of the dirty work for the team. For his confidence levels, I'm hoping he can finally get off the mark here - but it won't matter if he plays a part in another Toon win!

Predicted Brighton XI (3-4-1-2): Sanchez - Veltman, Duffy, Dunk - Lamptey, Bissouma, Mac Allister, Cucurella - Trossard - Welbeck, Maupay.

Match prediction

Brighton may haven't scored in their last three games, losing to nil against Aston Villa, Burnley and Man Utd, but this won't be easy. Graham Potter sides are never easy to play and he'll be expecting a reaction from his players.

That said, we are top of the Premier League form table for a season and come into this on the back of four wins and a draw in our last five games.

I think this will be a tight game. One where we'll have to work for our chances, work hard without the ball and get at them from the off - as they arrive low in confidence but can be a brilliant possession-based side if you allow them too much space.

Fraser to score in a low-scoring draw at St James' Park would be my pre-match prediction!

Prediction: Newcastle 1-1 Brighton

HOWAY THE LADS!