Newcastle United take on Arsenal on Sunday, as they look to put the final nail in the Gunners’ title bid.
But that is not Newcastle‘s priority – their main focus will be getting three points to take another giant step towards Champions League qualification.
It is set up to be a brilliant game at St James’ Park, and the atmosphere inside the ground should be absolutely electric.
Eddie Howe has a few selection dilemmas heading into the game, and this is our predicted Newcastle lineup to face Arsenal this weekend
Dan Burn at left-back against Arsenal
Hopefully there will be no changes at the back against Arsenal. That means Dan Burn continuing at left-back, having reclaimed his place for the win over Southampton.
It could be a tough afternoon for the giant defender, who will be up against England superstar Bukayo Saka. Arsenal’s number seven caused plenty of problems in the reverse fixture at the Emirates, and Burn will have to be at his best to keep him quiet on Sunday.
However, he will be hoping to get a helping hand from one of his teammates…
Sean Longstaff predicted to return to Newcastle’s midfield
Speaking of which, we anticipate one change in midfield. Sean Longstaff missed the win over Southampton and has not been seen in training, but we are still hopeful that he will start against Arsenal.
As it was an impact injury rather than a muscle problem, it will be easier for Howe to put him straight back into the side, and it has been reported that he will be in contention to play on Sunday.
If he does return, it will most likely be in place of Anthony Gordon. The 22-year-old was replaced at half time last time out.
That would see Joelinton move to the left, where he will have the aforementioned job of doubling up on Saka – which he did so well in the 0-0 draw at the Emirates.
Eddie Howe leaves Callum Wilson out of the starting lineup
Callum Wilson was Newcastle’s hero against Southampton, scoring a brace off the bench. It also saw Alexander Isak play out wide, where he performed brilliantly. The two even combined, with Isak setting up Wilson for the equaliser.
However, we anticipate that Wilson will once again be on the bench, with Isak leading the line.
While there will be temptation to start Isak on the left and Wilson through the middle, this is not the game to do it.
As we have already mentioned, Arsenal are very strong down that side, so it would be a big ask for Isak to step up and do a defensive job.
If we were playing against a weaker team, playing Wilson and Isak together would be a viable option. However, it should not happen on Sunday against he Gunners.
Predicted XI to face Arsenal: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Bruno, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Joelinton.
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