Newcastle failed to score against Brighton in two fixtures last season

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Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez will be desperate for a first win of the season at home to Brighton after the international break, with the pressure increasing at St James’ Park every week.

The Magpies have just two points on the board after eight Premier League matches and host Brighton in a pivotal fixture on Saturday.

Benitez needs his team to be at their best to earn three points, but they will need to do something they couldn’t manage last season against the Seagulls to achieve that.

Newcastle failed to score in either of their league matches in the top flight against Brighton last season, as they lost 1-0 at the Amex Stadium and were held to a goalless draw at home.

Chris Hughton’s side are exceptionally well drilled defensively and are extremely difficult to break down with two colossal centre-backs dominating in the backline.

Newcastle’s problems in front of goal are well documented and they are lacking quality in the final third to help them get over the line in matches.

But there were signs of improvement in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United before the international break and they could rely on summer signing Yoshinori Muto to get in the goals after he opened his account at Old Trafford.

Newcastle will need to be at their creative best to break down a stubborn Brighton defence and it will be another huge test for them, one that Benitez really needs them to overcome.