Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United are currently second from bottom in the Premier League table and welcome Brighton to St James’ Park this weekend.
Mark Lawrenson is not exactly the most popular figure among Newcastle United supporters.
The former Liverpool defender frequently tips The Magpies to struggle in his weekly BBC prediction column but, after a dismal start to the season from Rafa Benitez’ side, you can’t really argue with Lawrenson’s pessimism.
Newcastle have failed to win any of their first eight Premier League games and have picked up a grand total of just two points so far. On current form, another relegation battle looks like an absolute certainty at St James’ Park.
But, speaking to the BBC Sport, Lawrenson has rather surprisingly backed Benitez to turn his struggling side around.
“The Magpies have not picked up a single point at St James’ Park this season but I am backing them to get off the mark (at home to Brighton),” Lawrenson said.
“Longer-term, their prospects actually look quite similar to Brighton’s, in that I am not expecting either of these teams to be relegated. They will both be in the bottom eight, but towards the top end of it.”
Newcastle threw away a two goal lead away at Manchester United before the international break, losing to a last-gasp Alexis Sanchez goal at Old Trafford. But there were still plenty of positives to take from a brave and bold first-half display at the Theatre of Dreams.
Benitez may be operating with one hand tied behind his back but perhaps it is time to release the shackles ahead of a very winnable home game against Brighton this weekend.
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