Preview: Newcastle United to face Brighton without key players

Brighton vs. Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium. (Photo by Catherine Ivill)
Brighton vs. Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium. (Photo by Catherine Ivill)

Newcastle United are hoping to end their current losing streak, but it will not be easy without their most important players.

Newcastle United are currently on a three-game losing streak, but that negative trend could continue due to their injury crisis. Games between Newcastle United and Brighton have always been close encounters, but how competitive can the Magpies be without seven players, which include Jamaal Lascelles and Allan Saint-Maximin?

Brighton enter tomorrow’s game in 16th place, six points clear of the bottom three with two games remaining, but goal differential is on their side if they were to finish level on points with the team that finishes 18th in the table.

The Seagulls had some difficult games in Project Restart, but they did manage to earn some positive results against Arsenal (W), Leicester City (D), and in-form Southampton (D). Of the two teams suiting up tomorrow, Brighton are certainly feeling more confident.

Newcastle United have been mathematically safe for a few weeks now, and their recent form is reflective of a team that is ready for the season to end. Steve Bruce’s side have not lost four consecutive games this season, but a loss at the Amex Stadium would set that record.

Bruce needs his men to show up and perform for his sake as he has been at the center of criticism from many fans on social media.

Newcastle United did not care about the Manchester City game, experienced a tale of two halves against Watford, and let Tottenham score three goals when they were not in command of the game.

The Magpies owe it to the Toon Army to wake up and get a result against Brighton, despite not having some of their main players in the squad. Newcastle United have sufficient talent to get the job done on the south coast tomorrow.

The last meeting between these two teams ended 0-0 at St. James’ Park, but fans will be hoping Dwight Gayle can continue his recent form and effectively carry the front line.

A win for Newcastle United would take them to 46 points on the season, which would be their highest point total since earning promotion. Can Bruce earn more points than Rafa Benitez? Tomorrow is a prime opportunity for that.