Arsenal travel to Newcastle United this afternoon for what could prove to be a pivotal Premier League showdown.
It was in this fixture nearly a year ago where Newcastle’s controversial winner sparked Mikel Arteta’s infamous rant where he called the referee a ‘disgrace’ but will there be fireworks today?
The Gunners are aiming to close the gap to Manchester City and Liverpool in the title race but have a number of fitness concerns as they head to St. James’ Park.
Thankfully for Arteta, he has his first choice centre-back duo available with William Saliba back from suspension and Gabriel Magalhaes passed fit after coming off injured during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
As for Newcastle, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon have overcome ‘niggling injuries’ to make the starting XI and will likely be the Magpies’ most dangerous threats.
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Gabriel and Saliba return
The big news for Arsenal is the return of their imperious centre-backs Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.
Gabriel was forced off with injury during the draw with Liverpool last Sunday, while Saliba missed that game after being sent off in the defeat at Bournemouth.
They start today but it’s not the perfect backline as Thomas Partey fills in at right-back with Ben White only fit enough for the bench.
Newcastle team news
And the hosts Newcastle:
Starting XI: Pope, Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall, Bruno, Longstaff, Willock, Gordon, Isak, Joelinton
Subs: Dubravka, Krafth, A Murphy, Kelly, Tonali, Miley, Barnes, Almiron, Osula
Arsenal team news
Here’s the all important team news, starting with the visitors Arsenal:
Starting XI: Raya, Partey, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber, Saka, Merino, Rice, Martinelli, Trossard, Havertz.
Subs: Neto, White, Zinchenko, Lewis-Skelly, Kiwior, Jorginho, Nwaneri, Sterling, Jesus.
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Hello and welcome to Metro’s live coverage of today’s early Premier League kick-off between Newcastle United and Arsenal!
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