Arsenal travel to the North East this weekend as they look to continue their domestic form and hit back after another heartbreaking European exit, where they didn’t quite to enough to overturn a first-leg deficit.
Key Men
Arsenal: Mesut Ozil
Mesut Ozil has had his fair share of critics and they had their pitchforks out again after the 2-0 victory in Monaco. However, in truth, it was one of the World Cup champions better games in an Arsenal shirt as he controlled the fluidity of the midfield and made it a nightmare for the French opposition.
It’s been said that many don’t appreciate Ozil and it’s true- and Ozil can put in another splendid performance at the weekend to see of the Magpies, who were crushed by Everton in Merseyside last weekend.
Newcastle: Ayoze Perez
Newcastle striker Ayoze Perez has been a breath of fresh air in the most northerly Premier League club this season and he is developing into a star. This weekend, he will likely be feeding on scraps as Arsenal will dominate possession and snuff out his chances.
Therefore he has to remain confident and controlled when on the ball and take any opportunities that come his way- as this is what separates the good from the great.
Likely Approach
As mentioned, Arsenal will enter the game all guns blazing as they look to keep ahead in the battle for Champions League football. With Manchester United and Liverpool meeting on Saturday, it’s a great chance for the Gunners to put some space between one, or both, of their opponents.
On top of this, Arsenal are within sight of second-place in the Premier League- and a late title push is possible, although unlikely. There’s one way to find out though- Arsenal must keep picking up the points and they should be able to on Tyneside.
Newcastle are in a transitional period after the departure of Alan Pardew in January and seem to be struggling to find their new identity, with results being inconsistent and it being unclear what the future holds. A defensive approach from the Magpies is likely- and Arsenal should be able to sweep them aside.
Prediction: Newcastle 0-3 Arsenal
Arsenal will come here with redemption on their mind after an exit from Europe- though they did well to pick up the victory in the South of France. The Gunners have won their last eight domestic games in all competitions- a fine run of form which they should extend this weekend.