Mark Lawrenson lauds Brighton's 'great achievement' and makes West Ham score prediction

The Seagulls take on West Ham United at the Amex Stadium on Saturday night, in what should be an entertaining clash against two well-matched sides.

In his weekly scoreline predictions column for BBC Sport, pundit Mark Lawrenson turned his attention to Brighton's clash against the Hammers, and tipped the two sides to play out a 1-1 draw.

Explaining his prediction, the ex-Liverpool star claimed: “West Ham's home defeat by Everton last weekend all but finished off their hopes of making the top four, even though it is still mathematically possible. I see more frustration for David Moyes' side here too.

“Brighton will be without suspended duo Lewis Dunk and Neal Maupay after their red cards against Wolves. That should help the Hammers, but I still think Brighton will get something out of the game.

“Staying up again this time means the Seagulls will spend a fifth consecutive season in the top flight for the first time in their history, which is a great achievement.

“Well done to Brighton boss Graham Potter, and to the club's board - because they went out on a limb to bring him in as manager in 2019, and gave him a long contract too.”

Meanwhile, Lawro's sparring partner for the week, Radio 1Xtra DJ Ace, also backed a 1-0 away win for West Ham, and stated: “Brighton are very well organised team but I am backing West Ham here.”