Paul Merson has predicted Newcastle United to draw when they travel to Brighton on Sunday in the Premier League.
The pundit has told Sky Sports that he believes the Magpies will pick up a 1-1 away draw at the Amex in their encounter.
“I know it’s only five games but Newcastle have done superbly to get into the top four – not many people saw that coming!” Merson said. “Their fans will be full of confidence and looking for another win but Brighton make it difficult for opponents at the Amex. Man City were made to work hard and West Brom were dispatched 3-1.
“A draw would be a good result for the visitors, they should take that all day long.”
Rafael Benitez’s side have won their last three consecutive league games and will be hoping to extend that run, with victories over Stoke, Swansea and West Ham lifting them into the top four of the table.
The North East club are currently fourth in the league standings and have made a great start on their return to the top flight.
Meanwhile, Brighton have just one win in their opening six games and will realise how vital their home form must be.
OPINION
Newcastle should go into the weekend confident of stretching their winning steak against a Brightons side that don’t look too threatening in front of goal. The Magpies will need to make St James’ Park a fortress to ensure survival, but picking up points from the teams that will around the relegation zone is crucial. Brighton are set to be fighting the drop during their first ever Premier League season and will have targeted a positive result against Newcastle. It’s set to be a nervy fair and one goal could decide the contest.