NEWCASTLE VS BRIGHTON: PREVIEW

Newcastle United host Brighton & Hove Albion, looking to earn their first 3 points of the season after remaining winless in eight games so far this season.

However, it isn't all doom and gloom surrounding Newcastle, after their fans can take positives despite their 3-2 loss at Manchester United before the international break.

Newcastle will be looking to move up the table and out of the Premier League relegation zone with a win this weekend.

The Seagulls will be looking to build upon their winning momentum after their 1-0 win over West Ham before the International break.

The South Coast side will be looking to add to their points tally of eight points so far this season after 8 games, and will be hoping to climb the table as they remain lower mid table.

Source: Newcastle Chronicle

MANAGERS COMMENTS:

Rafael Benitez took positives from his sides last encounter before the international break against Manchester United and has spoken about the opposition on Saturday.

"The most important thing for us was to understand what we did really well (at Manchester United), and what we did wrong at the end," Benitez said.

“The first win is always the most difficult. As soon as we win the first game, we will have more confidence and it will be easier for us.

“I think the fans realise that the players will need support. If we are united, like we have been for years, then we can do well.

“They (Brighton) have a good manager and good players, and more experience now.”

Chris Hughton has reflected fondly on the international break and has looked ahead to the difficult challenge which faces them on Saturday.

"We've given the players some time off - and we went into the break on the back of a good win. It's been a nice feel this week but now it's back to business at the weekend," Hughton said.

"The game will be another tough away match for us - we know it's a challenge to do better away from home.

"We're a side who were promoted the season before last and this is our second campaign in the league - every game is difficult away from home. The majority of teams we play have more experience in this division."

TEAM NEWS:

Benitez has confirmed that striker Saloman Rondon is still not available for selection. He also confirmed that Clark has had some treatment on a muscle problem and will not be available for selection for this upcoming game.

He has also informed that Paul Dummett has been training normally but still a doubt for the game.

Hughton has confirmed that Davy Propper will miss the game due to an ankle injury. Gross, Stephens and Bong are in contention for this game after returning from injury.

Source: Daily Star

STATS:

Newcastle's last five games in the Premier League: L/L/D/L/L

Brighton's last five games in the Premier League: D/D/L/L/W

In total, these teams have met 22 times in all competitions and Newcastle have won nine times, and Brighton have also won nine times so history shows that this fixture is very even. There have also been four draws between these two teams.

BETTING ODDS:

Bet 365 have made Newcastle favourites in this game to win placing them at 6/5 to overcome Brighton.

A Brighton win is being priced at 14/5, with a draw between these 2 sides being priced at 9/4.

PREDICTION:

My prediction for this game is a tight 2-1 win to Newcastle. I think that they will get their first 3 points of the season. I think Muto and Kenedy will score for Newcastle, and Glenn Murray will score for Brighton.

What are your predictions for this Premier League encounter on Saturday at 3pm at St James Park?