Paul Merson releases Newcastle and Eddie Howe predictions ahead of Brighton trip

The first game in a high-stakes May for Newcastle kicks off at 2pm today, as we face a difficult away trip against Brighton and Hove Albion.

In a season where we’ve beaten Liverpool, Man Utd, Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs across all competitions, a win against the Seagulls still eludes us.

And one pundit has weighed in on how he thinks it will unfold at the AMEX, before going off on a bizarre tangent!

Merson's previews Sunday - with a twist

Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson previewed today's game, offered his prediction and then bizarrely delved into a manager of the season debate.

We've not won at Brighton since 2017 and have lost to them twice this season in league and cup, but Merson fancies us to get a convincing win against an inconsistent side.

"Brighton had a good result last weekend when they secured a late win, but that was against West Ham. I think Newcastle win this one. It's not the Brighton we've seen over the years and I don't expect them to trouble Newcastle.”

"I don't believe Eddie Howe deserves to win manager of the year award. I would pick Arne Slot. Winning the league with four games to go in his debut season is an incredible achievement. Howe and Nuno Espirito Santo have done quite well, but I'd have to go with Slot.

Merson’s Prediction: Brighton 1-3 Newcastle

Whilst we can appreciate Merson backing the Magpies for all three points, his mention of Howe’s supposed MOTY merits feels like an odd inclusion to his comments, although it's not unlike the pundit to throw in a curve-ball after previously talking up a move for Isak in his recent prediction pieces!

Brighton conceding goals for fun

Heading into today's game, it feels like a repeat of the last few seasons where we play Brighton in a game with massive implications for the end of our season.

We notably beat them 4-1 at St James’ Park the last time we qualified for the Champions League, but our record at the AMEX is poor all things considered.

But Brighton’s recent rut, with 15 goals conceded in their last six Premier League games makes this the opportune time for us to finally get our win back on them.

The defensive pairing of Jan Paul Van Hecke and Joel Veltman are back, but with 18 goals scored in our own last six league games, momentum is on our side and we could be in line for a convincing away win that puts us even closer to our European football dreams.