Paul Merson and pundit agree on Newcastle United v Brentford prediction as ‘stubborn’ claim made

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has suggested Brentford’s trip to Newcastle United could be a very close match.

The Bees are without a win since their 5-2 thriller against Leeds United last month, while the Magpies head into the clash off the back of a thrashing over Fulham.

However, the threat of Ivan Toney - formerly of Newcastle - remains Brentford’s biggest asset heading to Tyneside.

Writing in his BBC Sport column, Sutton said: “I watched Newcastle beat Fulham last weekend and I was very impressed with them going forward.

“Brentford are quite a stubborn team but Newcastle will take the game to them, and I can see them creating enough chances to win it.

“Bees striker Ivan Toney will have a point to prove going back to St James’ Park - he is in my fantasy team, but he needs to pull his finger out if he is going to make a difference on Saturday.”

Toney scored an early goal in the two teams’ last meeting at St. James’ Park and will be eager to bag his sixth goal of the Premier League campaign.

Meanwhile, Paul Merson has criticised Brentford and has also backed the home side to claim the three points.

Speaking to Sportskeeda, the Arsenal icon said: “Brentford are on a run of two games without a goal, while Newcastle United completely and utterly dismantled Fulham last weekend.

“The Arsenal result has knocked Brentford sideways, so I don’t see them getting a positive result here.”

Chris Sutton prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Brentford

Paul Merson prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Brentford