Speaking to the club’s official website, Brighton and Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton has been praising Sam Baldock’s recent form, ahead of tonight’s clash with Newcastle United in the Sky Bet Championship.

Baldock is expected to retain his place in Hughton’s starting 11 tonight after impressing, and scoring the opening goal, in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Reading, which helped lift Brighton to the top of the Championship table.

Saturday’s strike was Baldock’s fourth in four games, following a goal against Burton Albion and a brace against Barnsley.

Brighton boss, Hughton, gave his thoughts on Baldock’s form, he told seagulls.co.uk: “It’s a combination of things. He’s playing regularly and is injury free. Although he missed a few games recently, he’s been relatively injury-free for most of this season.

“Strikers, in particular, have good moments. They go through good phases where things are running for them, and at this moment it’s a good one for him.”

Baldock’s goal against Reading was his tenth of the season, and Hughton also had praise for his work ethic, he continued: “Sam always gives himself the best opportunity as he always works hard for the team and is very much a team player.

“At this moment, other things are also going in his favour and he’s worked very hard for that to happen.”

Brighton’s clash with Newcastle this evening gives the Seagulls a chance to move four-points clear at the top of the Championship table, which would see them gain a significant advantage over their opponents in the race for automatic promotion.

Brighton fans… How impressed have you been with Baldock’s recent performances? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!