Newcastle United are going to have to produce something very special to beat Arsenal on Saturday night.
That is the view of TalkSPORT pundit Gabby Agbonlahor, who has praised Arsenal for their ability to dig out results so far this season.
Both teams were in Carabao Cup action during the week, but had very contrasting fortunes. While Newcastle celebrated a famous win over Man United, the Gunners were beaten in a London derby by West Ham.
That is despite the fact that Mikel Arteta put out a pretty strong team, with Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli the major names to miss out.
But they will find themselves in the same condition as Newcastle, whose squad has been stretched in recent weeks.
It should be an absolutely brilliant game of football at St James’ Park, and it is another test for Eddie Howe’s side, who are in the midst of an extremely challenging run.
While playing at home should give Newcastle an advantage, Agbonlahor still believes it is Arsenal who will be victorious – but only just.
Agbonlahor thinks Arsenal will beat Newcastle on Saturday
Ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures, Agbonlahor has provided his predictions for TalkSPORT. He believes that Arsenal will win 2-1 at St James’ Park.
“On Saturday at 5:30pm, Newcastle are at home to Arsenal,” he said.
“This is a tough game. Arsenal know how to get results. They’ve had some tough games but they’re getting over the line in games and getting results.
“Newcastle – St James’ Park is a fortress. In previous seasons, they’ve got results against Arsenal.
“But this game, I think Arsenal will see it over the line. I’m going to go for a 2-1 win to Arsenal.”
Very tough game for Newcastle this weekend
Saturday night is a big test for Newcastle. The games are coming thick and fast, and the calibre of opponent is increasing.
While Man United are a massive club, they barely put up a fight on Wednesday. Arsenal will provide a much sterner test, and will be eager to secure all three points as they continue their Premier League title charge.
It would be a huge result if Newcastle can pick up the victory. There is no doubt it would be the Magpies’ biggest Premier League win of the season so far.
But Arsenal will go in as favourites, despite Newcastle’s impressive home form. The Gunners got the job done at St James’ Park last season, and Agbonlahor thinks they will do it again.
Eddie Howe is out to stop that happening, and will be safe in the knowledge that his Newcastle team can win if they play to their best.
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