Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion are set to clash in a crucial Premier League match on Saturday, October 19, at St. James’ Park. Both teams are currently tied on 12 points, with Brighton in sixth place and Newcastle in seventh, separated only by goal difference.
The match promises to be highly entertaining, given the recent form of both teams. Newcastle, despite their injuries, have shown resilience and have been hard to beat. They drew their last two matches against Manchester City and Everton. Brighton, on the other hand, came back from a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 against Tottenham, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Danny Welbeck of Brighton has been in red-hot form and is expected to be a key player in the match. For Newcastle, Harvey Barnes has taken on the role of top scorer in the absence of Aleksander Isak, who is set to return from injury.
The head-to-head record between the two teams is closely matched, with Newcastle winning five times, Brighton winning seven times, and seven draws in their last 19 meetings. However, Newcastle has not lost to Brighton in their last three home encounters.
Injuries are a significant concern for both teams. Newcastle will be without Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Lewis Miley, Callum Wilson, Garang Kuol, Aleksander Isak (though he might return), Matt Targett, and Martin Dubravka. Brighton will miss Solly March and Matt O’Riley due to injuries.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, has highlighted the physical preparedness of his team and the tactical challenges posed by Brighton under their young manager, Fabian Hurzeler. The match is expected to be open and dynamic, with both teams likely to score).
The referee for the match will be Peter Bankes, with Eddie Smart and Nick Greenhalgh as assistants, James Bell as the fourth official, and Tony Harrington as the VAR).
