Arsenal will make the journey up north this Saturday, as they take on Newcastle United in their fourth league match of the season at St James’ Park.
The Gunners have experienced a mixed start to their league campaign – much like the season before – as in their first three Premier League games the Gunners have won one, drawn one and lost one. This has put Arsenal five points behind league leaders Manchester City, so it’s imperative that Arsenal try to keep up with the pace by going on a good run of results.
Last Monday, Arsenal were held by Liverpool in a goalless draw at the Emirates. Early-season rustiness and a new centre-back partnership for that night showed through, as Arsene Wenger’s men didn’t show composure in the first forty-five, losing the ball easily when in their own half and almost conceding a couple of times if not for being bailed out for Man of the Match Petr Cech, who produced some simply stunning saves. Arsenal did have a goal disallowed due to offside, however, television replays showed that decision to be incorrect – strengthening the case for further help video-wise for referees. In the second half, Arsène Wenger’s side looked a lot more measured, and had a few great chances, but failed to break to deadlock. All in all, an inconsistent display, and one they’ll be hoping to forget about this Saturday.
Going to the opposition, Newcastle have been busy this summer. Appointing former England boss Steve McClaren as manager and board member means a much-changed philosophy to that of Alan Pardew’s reign. Mike Ashley, the club’s infamous owner, has taken a backseat in club affairs, as the Magpies sign a host of talented players. Chancel Mbemba and Aleksander Mitrovic are both strong, aggressive players that have been signed from Belgian club RSC Anderlecht, Dutch league winner Georgino Wijnaldum has signed to offer a great attacking presence that’s suited to the league – scoring on his debut – as well as Marseille winger Florian Thauvin, bringing their total summer spend to over £45m, in a drastic overhaul on Tyneside.
It’s been a mixed start to the season for the side in black and white, drawing two and winning one of their first three league games. The opening day fixture against Southampton showed a great attacking display but ultimately a defensive frailty, a loss in Swansea an all around poor performance, but a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford showing great defensive quality, particularly from captain Fabricio Coloccini. After a tough opening run of fixtures, it’s looking promising for McClaren’s men.
A player that Newcastle will want to keep an eye on is Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman has a great record against Newcastle in the league, and his power and movement can draw open gaps in the defence. It’s worked time and time again, not only helping himself but also his teammates.
A player that Arsenal will want to watch out for is Moussa Sissoko. Whilst the former Toulouse player is inconsistent, on his day his power can drive the opposition to the wall. The French international scored against Arsenal last time the Gunners went to Tyneside, and with an already weaker midfield, Arsenal are at risk of being caught out by Sissoko.
The last time these two teams met, Arsenal came away 2-1 winners from the north East, courtesy of a Giroud brace. It was a nervy performance, particularly in the second half, but the Gunners held on for the three points. In that game, Arsenal were damaged from the flanks heavily towards the end of the game, so a similar mistake will have to be avoided.
It’ll be a tight match-up, as both teams look to get their season firmly back on track. And especially with these two teams, you simply don’t know what kind of performance you are going to get. It’s going to be tight, especially in the defensive department, so it’s tough to call.
Team News
Arsenal’s first choice centre-back pairing are a doubt to be starting – Koscielny with a back injury and Mertesacker with illness – Wenger has said the only one close to playing could be Koscielny although it’s unclear. Danny Welbeck, Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky are all out with knee, ankle and knee injuries respectively.
For Newcastle, Daryl Janmaat could make a return after suspension, and Florian Thauvin could make his league debut. The Frenchman notched a goal and an assist in a League Cup tie this week, so he’s on red-hot form. It remains to be seen what centre-back pairing will be chosen for the day – that appears to be the only major decision.
Predicted XIs:
Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Cech; Bellerin, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal; Cazorla, Coquelin; Ramsey, Ozil, Sanchez; Giroud.
Newcastle (4-2-3-1): Krul; Janmaat, Coloccini, Taylor, Haidara; Anita, Colback; Wijnaldum, Perez, Thauvin; Cisse.
Prediction:
I’m predicting a 2-1 win to the Arsenal. Much like the last match-up between the two teams, Arsenal will take charge in the first half and score two – through Olivier Giroud and Aaron Ramsey – but will fall short in the latter stages of the game, conceding a consolation goal from former Arsenal target Papiss Cisse. It looks to be the type of the game that will cause Arsenal fans to lose hair over, but one the team will claim a needed three points from.
