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What to watch for: Newcastle United vs. Arsenal FC

ByRoy Emanuel|
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Fans of Newcastle United unvail a giant flag in the stand during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on March 31, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 31: Fans of Newcastle United unvail a giant flag in the stand during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on March 31, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images)

“As little by little, we gave you everything you ever dreamed of…”

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez are full of confidence at the moment, as three consecutive Premier League victories have the club tenth in the table. The Magpies are within reach of the 40-point total this weekend, as they host Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.

Kick-off is set for 1:30 PM local time at St. James’ Park, with the Toon’s opponent entering following an interesting week. Unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions, the Gunners progressed to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals on Thursday in a 6-3 aggregate victory against CSKA Moscow.

Arsenal have won their last three Premier League fixtures, most recently a 3-2 result over Southampton this past weekend. Newcastle are coming off a 2-1 triumph at Leicester City, and an enthusiastic crowd will once again be behind them in the North East.

Manager Arsene Wenger’s side are sixth in the table, three points back of Chelsea. Of course, if they are able to capture the Europa League title they will automatically be playing Champions League football next season.

The Toon should feel optimistic about their chances, as the Gunners have stumbled at various stages of the campaign.

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A mid-week trip to Russia for them will definitely not make matters easy, and fatigue could have an influence in the team selection.

Slimani’s chance to shine

Expect to see the same line-up from Benitez this weekend, as the Spanish tactician has not changed the choices in the past three games. However, there could be one exception.

Islam Slimani may be set to make his first start for the club, assuming his fitness is at the appropriate level. If not, it will be important for him to make an impact in a substitute role.

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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez can get to 41 points with a victory against Arsenal on Sunday, and that outcome would make for quite a scene on Tyneside.