Three questions for Howe ahead of Arsenal clash

Eddie Howe will be in the Newcastle dugout for the very first time when he takes his Newcastle side to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal.

That should give the Magpies a boost ahead of a tricky trip, but Howe has plenty on his mind in the lead-up to the game.

We have taken a look at three conundrums Howe has to solve – and get right – for Newcastle to get a positive result from the game.

Karl Darlow made a blunder to let in the first goal of the Howe era against Brentford.

He also looked nervous, as if the demands of playing out from the back were playing on his mind.

Howe has Martin Dubravka waiting in the wings but dropping Darlow after one game could crush his confidence.

It is a tough balancing act and a big call to make. Some fans may see it as clean-cut, but it is a test of Howe’s man-management skills.

Howe went for a back three in his maiden match but Newcastle still conceded three goals.

Callum Wilson has four bookings to his name so far this season, meaning he is one away from a suspension.

Next up after Arsenal is Norwich and while it is never wise to look too far ahead, Newcastle really need Wilson available for that one.

That may mean that the England international sits this one out, but it would be a big call.