Sports
Newcastle United Hosts Brighton at St. James’ Park for Final Home Game
Newcastle United will host Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James’ Park for their final home game this season in the Premier League. The Magpies will aim to secure a top-5 finish to qualify directly for the next Europa League campaign after winning four of their last five league matches.
Brighton, who snapped a six-game winless streak with a 1-0 victory over the reigning champions last time out, still holds European aspirations but trail the qualification spots by seven points with three games remaining in the season.
Despite struggles away from home, Brighton holds a solid record against Newcastle, having lost only two of their last 13 encounters. Newcastle’s top-5 finish hopes depend on their results and those of Spurs and Man Utd in the season’s final games, requiring three straight wins to bolster their chances.
With the Spurs currently in 5th place with 60 points, Newcastle sits in 6th with 56 points, trailed by Chelsea and Man Utd in the chase for a European spot. Kieran Trippier is nearing a return from injury, while Alexander Isak is up for the Premier League's Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards.
Joelinton and Miguel Almirón returned in the last game against Burnley, adding depth to the squad. Brighton, managed by De Zerbi, has impressed and currently sits 11th in the Premier League table, showcasing a strong tactical approach and style that Newcastle must be wary of.