After their victory on the opening day against Watford, Brighton & Hove Albion have now lost two of their last four league games and are in desperate need of some positive results.
They will look to get back to winning ways on Saturday when they travel to St James’ Park to take on a Newcastle United side, who were beaten 3-1 by Liverpool last weekend.
The Seagulls were denied three crucial points by a late goal from Jeff Hendrick in their last game, and Graham Potter will hope that his side return to winning ways against the Magpies.
Potter’s side are undefeated in the last four meetings between the two sides, but this game could be more evenly matched, with both teams showing signs of form this season.
Brighton Team News
In early team news, the Seagulls are still without the services of Leandro Trossard, Ezequiel Schelotto and Jose Izquierdo all of whom are nursing long term injuries.
However, Potter will be happy to see the likes of Martin Montoya, Bernardo and Leon Balogun back in training, after the trio missed their clash against Burnley.
Predicted Brighton Lineup (3-4-3)
Defence
Mat Ryan could not have done much to stop Burnley’s equaliser in the last game. He will keep his place under the bar against the Magpies, and will hope to get better support from his backline.
Lewis Dunk has been a solid presence at the back for the Seagulls and should keep his place in the Brighton lineup.
Shane Duffy, who has been the best defender for Brighton so far this season, will start on the right side of the backline while Dan Burn, who started in a wing-back role in that game, could be back on the left side of the backline for this game.
Up against the likes of Joelinton and Miguel Almiron, the trio need to be at their best to take something from this game.
Midfield
Solly March put in a solid performance against the Clarets in the last game on the right side of the midfield. But with Martin Montoya likely to be back in action, March could be pushed back into the left wing-back role. Montoya will have to keep a close eye on Jetro Willems and Christian Atsu, staring in a right wing-back role.
Potter has stuck with the tried and tested midfield pairing of Davy Pröpper and Dale Stephens for every game this season. He has no real reason to tamper with the combination for this trip to St James’ Park.
Attack
Pascal Gross has been effective on the right flank and should start there, while Glen Murray could start on the left, giving Neal Maupay, who is in decent form, a chance to lead the line once again.
The trio are versatile and will certainly trouble Jamaal Lascelles and company in this tie.
Here is how they might line up:
