…INJURY REPORT

Kieran Trippier is getting closer to matchday contention after training this week, but he will need to be assessed ahead of his potential involvement tomorrow. Fabian Schar will not be available, but he could be back next week. Joelinton and Miguel Almiron have trained well this week and got some good work into their bodies, but both players are still building their robustness which they need to stay fit.

…BRIGHTON

They are a very good team. Roberto has done an amazing job and Graham Potter was also hugely impressive. Their style is difficult to grab hold of and control. They stick to their method and they have become very strong at it.

…LAST DEFEAT

If you don't get the tactical framework right, you're in for a very difficult afternoon. We didn't quite get that right at Amex Stadium - I think we were off it, physically and tactically. So we hope for a better delivery tomorrow.

…ABOUT THE SEASON

We've loved playing at home this year. The feeling has been really good for us. The crowd always makes for a really good environment. I don't have any complaints about our home form, so a big thank you to the home support.

…ALEXANDER ISAK

He is fully deserving of that recognition. I have seen him flourish this season and he has enjoyed the environment he's played in. I want to push Alex to do great things.

…INJURY REPORT

Joao Pedro has picked up an ankle injury and is unsure if he will feature again this season. However, defender Tariq Lamptey could return to the bench. I am sad because Joao is important for us, especially at this moment when Julio Enciso and Ansu Fati are not at the top of their level of condition. Enciso has to stay focused and start the next pre-season at his best. He has to accept this moment, playing with team-mates and not alone on the pitch. Because he is younger and he didn't play so many games, he has motivation that is higher than a normal player.

…EUROPE DIDN’T HAPPENED

We have to be happy or sad depending on the attitude we showed. I think we have worked well and we gave our best - and then we have to accept the result. We are disappointed for the past three months because I think we couldn't compete with our quality, our possibility - but for the rest, we have to be proud of this season.

…ABOUT THE MATCH

St James' Park is the best stadium in the Premier League and that last season is still in my head because of the incredible atmosphere. Newcastle and Brighton - we have paid a big, big price with injuries. Maybe I speak for myself, but maybe we weren't ready to compete in three or four competitions. We suffered a lot of injuries, and Newcastle did as well. Newcastle can fight for the Champions League. Their level is higher than the position they are in at the minute.