Paul Merson predicts Brighton vs Newcastle and names key area Toon must improve under Howe
Paul Merson has released his predictions ahead of another weekend of Premier League football.
After backing us to beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 this time last week, the Sky Sports pundit believes we'll come away from Brighton with a point.
He expects the game to end in a 1-1 draw, feeling there's "not a lot between" the two sides who both came away with opening days wins last weekend
That said, he feels we "need to be more ruthless" in front of goal after a host of missed chances in what was an otherwise "dominant" display against Nottingham Forest.
Speaking to Sportskeeda, this is what he had to say ahead of today's clash at The Amex:
"Both these teams got very good results in the Premier League last week. Newcastle achieved an impressive victory and were dominant against Nottingham Forest. They took a lot of shots and there was plenty of action. They just need to be more ruthless and put their chances away.
"Brighton will count on Danny Welbeck this season - he's a very good footballer who's played for England. If Welbeck stays fit, he's a good player. If he plays all 38 Premier League games for Brighton, you know they'll be all right. But who's to say he'll stay fit?
"I think these two teams are on a level footing and there's not a lot between them. Newcastle and Brighton are evenly matched at the moment and could play out a draw this weekend."
Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 1-1 Newcastle United
Here's Merson's prediction in full ahead of the Premier League weekend:
- Aston Villa 2-0 Everton
- Southampton 2-1 Leeds
- Arsenal 3-0 Leicester
- Man City 4-0 Bournemouth
- Wolves 2-1 Fulham
- Brighton 1-1 Newcastle
- Brentford 1-1 Man Utd
- Nottingham Forest 1-2 West Ham
- Chelsea 1-1 Tottenham
- Liverpool 2-0 Crystal Palace
