9:00am Saturday 28th January 2012
By Andy Naylor
Mark McGhee has warned the Toon Army to beware of Albion’s Tartan Army as two of his old clubs lock horns at The Amex.
Captain Gordon Greer, Liam Bridcutt and Craig Mackail-Smith have been the backbone of the Seagulls’ Championship challenge this season.
Striker Mackail-Smith has already been capped by the Scots. Former Albion chief McGhee recommended centre-half Greer for a call-up while scouting for the Scottish FA and central midfielder Bridcutt also qualifies to play for them.
McGhee, now in charge of Bristol Rovers, told The Argus: “I must have watched Brighton six times this season and they have played very well, except at Southampton.
“I have been very impressed with them and the Scottish spine has been a major factor. Greer is much-improved. He has really come on since playing in England. He’s solid and comfortable on the ball.
“Bridcutt is the fulcrum who starts everything off and is also there to sweep up in front of the back four when they have lost the ball. He does a good anchoring job in there, which is key to their style of play.
“Nobody can question Mackail-Smith’s workrate. I have spoken to Craig Levein and people in the Scotland camp and they absolutely love him. His attitude is first class. I don’t think Newcastle will have an easy game.”
McGhee had two spells with Newcastle as a player. The Glaswegian centre forward said: “I loved playing for Newcastle more than anyone, even though Celtic were my boyhood team. The fans are so passionate.”
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