ARSENAL face their next tough test in the Premier League this weekend – a visit to high-flying Newcastle.
The Gunners handed the advantage to Manchester City in the title race last week after their 4-1 defeat at the Etihad.
The Magpies host the Gunners on Sunday and have plenty to play for themselves.
Eddie Howe’s side are in the battle for not only a Champions League spot, but in the race for third.
The club are currently two points ahead of 4th placed Manchester United and a win would give them a massive boost.
Arsenal head into the match off the back of a brilliant 3-1 win over London rivals Chelsea.
The victory was a big boost for Mikel Arteta’s side which had failed to win any of their previous four matches.
The result of that poor form has seen them hand the Premier League ascendency to Manchester City.
The Citizens play Leeds on Saturday so could be four points ahead of the Gunners ahead of kick-off at St James’ Park.
Team News
The Gunners are still expected to be out for the game against Newcastle. He missed the game against Chelsea and Arteta put him on a “wait and see” message.
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Gabriel Magalhaes could also miss the game after hurting his ankle against Chelsea, which would leave Arsenal short on defenders.
Arteta may have to rely on the partnership of Rob Holding and Jakub Kiwior.
Meanwhile, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Mohamed Elneny are also out with long-term injuries.
The Magpies however have been boosted by the return of Sean Longstaff and Allan Saint-Maximin.
But will continue to be without Emil Kraft who has a long-term injury.
Key players
Martin Odegaard was in top form for the Gunners against Chelsea and was unlucky not to get a hat-trick in the London derby.
The club captain has contributed to 21 goals in the Premier League this season with 14 goals and seven assists.
He will be up against Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes who has been just as vital to the Magpies.
Although he is not just a defender and will also be attempting to cause Arsenal’s potentially fragile backline issues with his passing range.
The midfielder will be instructed with having to try and contain Odegaard and limit his impact on the team.
Prediction
Arsenal to win a five-goal thriller, 3-2.
When is Arsenal vs Newcastle?
- Arsenal’s big clash with Newcastle will take place on Sunday, May 7.
- The game will kick off at 4.30pm UK time.
- Newcastle vs Arsenal will be held at St James’ Park.
- The two sides played out a 0-0 draw earlier this season at the Emirates.
What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
- Newcastle vs Arsenal will be shown live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Football.
- You can live stream the action from the NOW TV or Sky Go app, both of which are available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
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Odds
- Newcastle – 7/5
- Draw – 5/2
- Arsenal – 7/4
*Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and correct at time of publication.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
