Newcastle’s Europa League hopes dented in draw against Brighton

Newcastle’s pursuit of a Europa League spot hit a stumbling block as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton, casting doubts on their chances.

Joël Veltman broke the deadlock for the visitors early in the game, before Sean Longstaff’s leveler in the first half stoppage time.

Despite their recent form, with four wins from their last five matches, the Magpies failed to pick all three points in the Saturday encounter.

Alexander Isak, who is usually lethal in front of goal, struggled to make any impact in the Premier League game.

The draw leaves Newcastle in sixth place, but with the race for European places more intense now, their grip on a Europa League spot has weakened considerably.

The Magpies boss Eddie Howe now faces a huge task as his side prepares for a crucial clash against Manchester United next.