Newcastle United will be starting the game from the second position after their frustrating draw against Bristol City last weekend. Although not season defining, but the fixture promises to be exciting one given their records this season at home and away.
The Seagulls have collected 42 points from 17 home games, while Newcastle have collected 35 points from 16 away games.
Team News
Brighton & Hove Albion- Among long-term injuries remain centre-back, Connor Goldson. The 24-year-old English defender has heart problems and is out for the season. Short-term injuries include goalkeeper Niki Mäenpää. The Finland international is out with a shoulder injury since last month and his return is still a few weeks due.
The right-back Liam Rosenior might be able to make a comeback just in time. The defender is sidelined with an ankle injury and is expected to return soon. A similar situation is with Cameroon international Gaetan Bong. The left-back has been out with a knee injury since last month and is recovering on a day to day basis.
Newcastle United- The major injury concern for Newcastle United would be the absence of forward Dwight Gayle. The forward is sidelined with a hamstring is unlikely to start the game. Rafa Benitez’s midfield is a bit light with the injury of Isaac Hayden. The English midfielder is out ankle injury with a return date in the middle of March. Benitez won’t have major worries in team selection otherwise.
Predicted Line-ups
Brighton & Hove Albion- Stockdale; Pocognoli, Duffy, Dunk, Bruno; Murphy, Stephens, Sidwell, Knockaert; Murray, Baldock
Newcastle United- Darlow; Dummett, Clark, Lascelles, Yedlin; Gouffran, Shelvey, Colback, Ritchie; Perez, Mitrovic
Key Players
Brighton & Hove Albion- Glenn Murray will be their main man up front. The centre-forward has already scored 16 times for them in 32 appearances and Hughton would expect the English forward to draw first blood. The right-wing Aaron Knockaert is also in sublime form at the moment with 11 goals in 32 outings and will have the task of making things up front.
Newcastle United- Benitez will be without the services of prolific forward Dwight Gayle and is likely to field the second choice Aleksandar Mitrovic in the high-octane fixture. The Serbian has been quite decent for the Magpies whenever given chance and the onus will be on him to get the goals. Fan favourite matt Ritchie is the second highest goal scorer for the club and will be a big threat to Brighton’s defence.
Odds
Brighton & Hove Albion @ 2.60
Draw @ 3.30
Newcastle United @ 3.00
