Odds against Newcastle United as pundits give their predictions for Brighton clash

Newcastle United need to show a response following their late collapse against Liverpool when they travel to face Brighton. The Magpies came out on top in their pre-season encounter in the USA in July, and will be hoping to repeat the trick on Saturday.

Roberto De Zerbi's side will also be hoping to bounce back following a disappointing result. The Seagulls fell to a surprising 3-1 defeat to West Ham at the Amex last time out.

Here's a round-up of the key predictions ahead of Brighton vs Newcastle United.

Paul Merson

Predicting a 2-2 draw, Merson told SportsKeeda: "This one looks like a really good game. The problem is that both teams are coming off bad results. Brighton got beaten by West Ham and Newcastle were beaten by 10-men Liverpool last week. As such, this is a massive football match for both teams. It's quite hard to call this one.

"I can see plenty of goals in this game. Brighton have to make their possession count and be wary of the threat that Newcastle United possess on the counter. "The Seagulls play some great football under Roberto de Zerbi. If Ansu Fati does join them, it'll be a great deal for all parties involved and it will make them even stronger in attack.

"It also shows how far Brighton have come as a team. Fati is a youngster from Barcelona who was widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the game not long ago."

Harry Redknapp

Predicting a 3-2 win for Brighton, Redknapp told BetVictor: "What a game this should be! Both sides coming off disappointing losses, both desperate for a win. Brighton didn’t play badly against West Ham; they just didn’t create enough and conceded some sloppy goals.

"I like the look of some of their new arrivals though, that will give this squad a real lift. I can’t believe Newcastle lost last week, and I’m sure Eddie Howe is still not over it. It just shows you can’t take anything for granted in this league.

"I think we’ll see goals; Brighton’s games always have goals in them. I fancy De Zerbi’s men to narrowly edge a thriller. One to watch- I’ve mentioned him a lot, but I really like young Evan Ferguson. He just looks like a natural striker to me; he’s got the lot."

Chris Sutton

Predicting a 1-1 draw, Sutton told BBC Sport: "A lot was made of Newcastle losing to 10 men - Liverpool is a game you'd expect them to see through, especially after taking the lead. Brighton ended up losing to West Ham and they play this expansive style of game; they like teams who come onto them and Newcastle will certainly do that.

"It's impossible to predict this one. I'll go for a draw."