Graham Potter wants to send an old mate back to Tyneside with a hug, a glass of wine – and no points.

Albion’s head coach will go up against Graeme Jones as Newcastle visit the Amex tomorrow (5.30pm).

Chances were increasing last night that Jones would still be in caretaker command of Toon rather than assisting a new manager.

But Newcastle and Eddie Howe have made progress towards a deal which would take the former Bournemouth boss to the North East.

Whatever happens, Jones will have prepared the side which walks out first at the Amex.

He was a team-mate of Potter’s at Boston United and recommended him to Ostersunds, where his managerial career took off.

The Seagulls boss said: “I’ve known him for a long time.

“I know him as a guy and a football person.

“He’s a fantastic friend who has been very supportive, very helpful.

“I know his qualities and how competitive he is. The team will be organised, motivated and they will play to their strengths.

“I am looking forward to seeing him.

GRAHAM POTTER'S BRIGHTON V NEWCASTLE PRESS CONFERENCE

“Hopefully I can send him home a little bit unhappy but afterwards we will have a glass of wine and give each other a hug, I am sure.”

Potter was speculatively linked with the Newcastle job.

He said: “It feels like any job that comes up my name seems to get thrown into it, my name must be stuck in the computers or something. I am focussed on what I am doing here, I am very happy here and preparing for the game and the team.”

Albion could have Blyth-born defender Dan Burn available again after a knee injury.