Chris Sutton believes Brighton vs Tottenham should be known as the ‘high-line derby’ due to the tactical set-up of both teams.
Spurs have adopted an aggressive style of play under Ange Postecoglou and currently sit top of the Premier League when it comes to possessions won in the attacking third (50) and expected goals (13.69), and second for shots attempted (110).
Brighton, meanwhile, have surrendered none of their style under new manager Fabian Hürzeler, fourth in the Premier League for shots attempted (96) and fifth for passes completed (2,744).
Such are the similarities between the two teams, Sutton has given the fixture a new title and believes it could be a ‘great game for the neutral’ when they meet this Sunday.
“I love watching Spurs and the same applies to Brighton at the moment,” Sutton wrote in his predictions column for BBC Sport.
“This should be known as the high-line derby, with the way both teams set up. It will be a great game for the neutral and there should be plenty of chances at both ends.”
Tottenham fans won’t be happy with Chris Sutton’s Brighton prediction
Sutton went on to predict an entertaining 3-3 draw, which may not sit well with Spurs supporters given their side are currently enjoying a run of five straight wins across all competitions.
“Brighton lost for the first time under new manager Fabian Hurzeler last week, so this is about how they respond. Can they cause Tottenham problems? Absolutely,” the former Blackburn and Chelsea striker continued.
“For Tottenham, it is about showing consistency after they put in an outstanding performance to beat Manchester United.
“James Maddison was so integral to what they did at Old Trafford, as were the Spurs centre-halves.
“As I’ve said many times, Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have to be their best players because they get left exposed, but they can handle that.
“As I said this on this week’s Monday Night Club on Radio 5 Live, while everyone talks about the quality of Arsenal’s centre-halves, they always have the full-backs next to them. It is very different for the Spurs duo, because they leave the door open by playing the way they do.
“So I am expecting goals, but I actually think Brighton will get something out of the game.
“I have always felt that Spurs will soon give someone one hell of a beating sooner or later, but they are going to have to wait until after the international break because it is not happening here.”