Ahead of a Premier League clash which both Newcastle and Brighton need to win in order to further their European ambitions for next season, Eddie Howe has said that developing Sandro Tonali as a playmaker has been his ‘most important decision’

Joelinton, Guimarães and Tonali have always bonded well off the pitch but, until they swapped stations, it looked as if the latter pair might not be able to play together. Now their on-field chemistry is almost palpable. “The balance of the team is hugely important,” said Newcastle’s manager, whose side have won 20 of their past 26 matches in all competitions. “That helped us find a better balance.”