Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi admits he enjoys Newcastle's St James' Park.

The Seagulls go to Newcastle later today.

De Zerbi said: "St James' Park is the best stadium in the Premier League. Last season is still in my head because of the incredible atmosphere and now they are playing well.

"They are in a good moment but we want to follow in the same way we play against Villa at home.

"I think Newcastle and Brighton, we have paid a big big price [with injuries]. Maybe I speak for myself, but maybe we weren't ready to compete in three or four competitions and we suffer a lot of injuries and Newcastle as well.

"With Joelinton, Almiron, Isak and Wilson in good condition I think they can fight for Champions League and qualify because their level is higher than the position they are in at the minute."

On expecting Newcastle to be on the front foot, he said: "Yes, because it is their DNA.

"They have fantastic players, their midfield scores a lot of goals. They are good with the ball they play with two full-backs and very offensive. The DNA of Newcastle is to score goals and score one more than opponent."

On missing Europe, De Zerbi added: "I think we have to be happy or sad depending on the attitude we showed. I think we have worked well and we give our best and then we have to accept the result.

"We are disappointed for the last three months because I think we couldn't compete in our quality, our possibility, but for the rest we have to proud of this season."

On the need to finish strong to start next season positively, he concluded: "Yes you are right, but anyway, when the new season starts you might have new and different platers. You close the the last season and start another season. For sure, we start the the motivation."