Pundit compares Newcastle United's Steve Bruce to Rafael Benitez and makes bold Everton scoreline prediction

Writing his weekly predictions column for BBC Sport, pundit and broadcaster Mark Lawrenson backed the Magpies to pick up a big 2-1 home win.

Justifying his latest scoreline tip, the ex-Liverpool and Preston North End man argued: "Lucas Digne joins Richarlison in being suspended for Everton after his red card in their defeat against Southampton.

"Everton have still made an excellent start to the season despite losing that game but I have a feeling they will end up empty-handed here too."

He continued: "When they need a bit of luck, Newcastle seem to get it - against Tottenham and then Wolves, when they nicked a point from both.

“Steve Bruce's side hang in there in a lot of games, which is essentially what they did under previous manager Rafael Benitez too.”

Lawro concluded: "But Bruce is trying to be a bit more offensive at times in certain games, and I think we'll see the Magpies create some chances on Sunday."

Meanwhile, Lawro's sparring partner for the week, 'The Rap Game UK' judge DJ target, opted for resounding 3-0 victory for the Toffees.

The last time the two sides met, back in January, a dramatic late twist saw the Magpies snatch a draw, thanks to two stoppage time goals within the space of two minutes from Florian Lejeune, who is currently on loan with La Liga side Deportivo Alaves.