Newcastle eye end to three-game winless run as Brighton receives injury boost.

2024-10-13

In a clash that sees both Newcastle and Brighton tied on points, the Magpies aim to end their three-game winless streak as they host the Seagulls at St. James' Park, where past encounters and returning international talents promise an intriguing showdown.

Newcastle United

A goalless draw against Everton wasn't the result Newcastle United hoped for before the international break, leaving them without a win in three Premier League games [WWLDD]. This draw placed Newcastle level on points with Saturday’s opponents, Brighton, both sides having accumulated 12 points.

While the Magpies are just below the Seagulls in 7th place, ending their three-game winless run is certainly the objective this weekend. Although Newcastle have only lost once in their last eight Premier League home games [4W, 3D, 1L], Eddie Howe hopes their strong home run against Brighton will serve as inspiration.

Newcastle are unbeaten in their last three Premier League home games against Brighton [2W, 1D, 0L]. Despite some players still returning from international duty, preparations have been ongoing during the week.

Bruno Guimarães was active for Brazil in a 4-0 win over Peru, while Sandro Tonali helped Italy to a 4-1 victory over Israel. A 4—3—3 formation featuring Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, and Jacob Murphy could be part of Eddie Howe’s attacking line-up against Brighton.

Up to four players are ruled out, with Alexander Isak and Martin Dúbravka both doubtful for the match.

Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton were once again a thorn in the flesh of the opposition after staging a three-goal comeback in a 3-2 win against Tottenham, having gone two goals down at the break. Spurs’ manager, Ange Postecoglou, had called it the ‘worst performance’ for his side since he took charge.

Now the Seagulls will be looking to hand Newcastle similar treatment when they visit St. James’ Park this weekend. The Seagulls have lost just two of their 14 Premier League meetings with Newcastle [5W, 7D, 2L], though both defeats have come across their last three visits to St. James’ Park. However, the last time Fabian Hürzeler’s side picked up a win away against Newcastle was in September 2020.

A 4—2—3—1 formation with Danny Welbeck in attack is expected. An attacking trio of Minteh, Rutter, and Mitoma could line up behind the 33-year-old.

In what serves as an injury boost, Solly March could make an appearance here after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. James Milner could also play a part, along with Simon Adingra.