BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson has backed us to beat Brighton today – believing our “great transfer window” and the “instant impact” of Callum Wilson will prove to be the difference.
Bruce has brought in Callum Wilson, Ryan Fraser, Jeff Hendrick and Jamal Lewis and all four of them hit the ground running on their debuts, bagging goals, assists and back to back clean sheets.
Former MOTD pundit Lawrenson believes our smart business this summer will see us pick up yet another win, citing Wilson’s ability to hit the ground running – something Joelinton couldn’t do – as a key factor.
Here’s what he had to say – although you’ll notice he gets it badly wrong on Joelinton, forgetting the Brazilian bagged his first goal for the club in August 2019 (vs Spurs) – not June 2020 in our win over Sheffield United.
Here’s what Lawro told the BBC in his latest prediction piece, backing us to win 2-1:
“I thought Newcastle have had a great transfer window and they proved it last weekend with their win at West Ham.
“Two of their new signings, Jeff Hendrick and Callum Wilson, scored which is always nice, particularly Wilson’s goal.
“It is always a nice feeling when your new striker scores straight away – compare Wilson’s instant impact to Joelinton last season, who did not break his Premier League duck until June.
“Brighton had chances against Chelsea, but they didn’t take them. I think they will be fine this season in terms of avoiding the drop, but who will score their goals is still a concern.”
Lawrenson’s Joelinton error aside (he bagged his first goal last August against Spurs!), I agree with him on the result of the game and also predict another Toon win.
We should be beating the likes of Brighton at home but struggled this time last year in a drab 0-0 draw and have scored just ONCE against the Seagulls in our six Premier League meetings since promotion.
Our goal scoring options are a lot better this time around and for that reason I think we’ll shade a victory – helping us on our way for our upcoming pursuit of Champions League football.
Lawro’s prediction: 2-1
Charlie’s prediction: 1-0
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Why not just say he got it wrong – did it have to be badly wrong?
I think the point he was trying to make is that Wilson will have more of an impactful season than Joelinton. Another goal from him tonight could have us off to a flyer.
JFA127(Quote)
Lawro just as bad as the toon players. Expecting us to do them. Just wait for Shearers analysis on MOT’d tonight. Bloddy disgrace
Shaun(Quote)
No mate, Lawro is garbage
Shaun(Quote)