Sky Sports journalist shares some inspiring statistics ahead of Newcastle United's clash with Brighton on Sunday

Newcastle United travel to Brighton and Hove Albion's AMEX Stadium for a 2pm kick-off live on Sky Sports this afternoon.

The Magpies have an awful Premier League record in the credit card arena, but as Bournemouth proved at Arsenal yesterday, history means nothing; it's about the here and now.

Brighton have had Newcastle's number all season, having already beaten them twice at St James' Park.

There's nothing more motivating than revenge, though, and now that second place is in our hands, we've got the perfect cocktail of reasons to go down there and destroy the Seagulls.

Advertisement

Brighton's defence is very leaky lately

Writing for Sky Sports, Lewis Jones has pointed out some nice little stats around Brighton's recent form that should give Newcastle some confidence.

“Brighton remain a team to fade, especially against such a relentless and well coached side like Newcastle with a goal in their sights.

“The Seagulls have conceded at least twice in each of their last six Premier League games and shipped 24 goals in their last 11 league encounters.

“These poor returns certainly marry up with my opinion that Fabian Hurzeler is struggling to get the best out of this talented squad.

“Newcastle have scored two or more goals in six of their last seven matches and sometimes the obvious bet is the best bet.

“Therefore, Alexander Isak to score in a Newcastle win looks a great bet.

“Score prediction: Brighton 1 Newcastle 3"

Advertisement

Pundits are backing a hefty scoreline for today

Jones has backed the same scoreline as Paul Merson, with a big win for Newcastle expected, and given Brighton's leaky defence, we can see where this is coming from.

However, we're not going to get too carried away - expect the worst, hope for the best is the play today for me.

What are your thoughts as kick-off approaches?