Newcastle welcome Brighton to St James’ Park for what will be an important fixture in the race for European football.
Date: 11/05/24
Kick-off time: 15:00
Venue: St James’ Park
The hosts have enjoyed some excellent form lately, which has allowed them to climb up the table. Four wins in five has put them in a very strong position to finish in the top six, though victory against Brighton is a must, with Chelsea and Manchester United just behind them in the table. With Tottenham’s recent poor form, they could also look ahead to fifth place, trailing them by four points with two games to go. However, their fate would be out of their hands in this scenario.
Brighton had long been in the fight for European football, but have struggled in recent weeks, which has seen them slide down the table. Before their victory against Aston Villa last time out, the Seagulls had gone winless in six. As a result, they are now 11th, with a place in the top seven a distant dream.
Goals are likely in this game, with the Magpies hot in attack, whilst the visitors are having a hard time keeping the ball out. Eddie Howe’s men have scored at least four goals in three of their last four games, whilst Brighton have conceded at least three in three of their last four. Newcastle’s offensive potency is largely helped by the play of striker Alexander Isak, who has netted five in his last four. He is the club’s top scorer on the season with 20 goals. Only Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer have scored more in the division. Joao Pedro’s recent return from injury has given Roberto De Zerbi a huge boost, with his eight goals still leading the way for his side despite his absence.
Since 2020, these two sides have met eight times in the top flight. Brighton just edge the head-to-head, with three wins to Newcastle’s two. One of these victories came in the reverse fixture earlier this season, as they triumphed 3-1 at home. Evan Ferguson scored a hat-trick before Callum Wilson pulled one back late in second half stoppage time.
Premier League 
