Pundit backs Brighton for 'top-eight' finish and makes Chelsea scoreline prediction

Writing his weekly predictions column for BBC Sport, pundit Mark Lawrenson gave his verdict on Brighton's chances of success this season, and claimed:

"If he stays fit, Adam Lallana will give Brighton something a bit different in midfield - he is a very clever player.

"We already know the Seagulls are solid at the back and I look at them as being capable of finishing top of the bottom eight - or out of trouble in other words.

"This is a tricky opener for them, though. Yes, Chelsea's new signings will take a little bit of time to gel, but you just know they are going to have a good season because they have so many good players."

Lawro went on to give a 2-0 scoreline prediction in Chelsea's favour. Meanwhile, his sparring partner for the week, Arsenal fan and soul singer Celeste, opted for a 2-1 Blues win.

The last time the two sides met in the Premier League, back in January, the Seagulls secured a dramatic late draw, with Alireza Jahanbakhsh scoring a stunning overhead kick to earn his side a point.

Meanwhile, Brighton last night confirmed the signing of Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke, who arrived from second tier Dutch side NAC Breda to sign a three-year deal with Graham Potter's side.