Preview: Saint-Maximin, Almiron expected to carry Newcastle against Arsenal

Newcastle United will be looking to claim their third victory in London this season when they take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Do the Magpies have what it takes to cause an upset?

Newcastle United enter tomorrow’s game with some momentum after being undefeated in their last four Premier League games, which includes a 1-0 victory over fourth-placed Chelsea. Arsenal are also undefeated in their last four Premier League games, but their recent record only consists of four consecutive draws.

Last Meeting

Newcastle United 0-1 Arsenal

Where They Stand

Arsenal: 10th, 31 points (6-13-6)
Newcastle United: 12th, 31 points (8-7-10)

Players to Watch

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: 14 goals (third-highest scorer in the EPL)
Gabriel Martinelli: 3 goals, 42% shooting accuracy
Allan Saint-Maximin: 1 goal, 1 assist, 76% passing accuracy
Ciaran Clark: 2 goals, 4 clean sheets, 63% tackle success rating

Analysis

Newcastle United are considered major underdogs in tomorrow’s clash despite being level on points with Arsenal. The Magpies are expected to be disciplined and patient behind the ball tomorrow, which will allow the Gunners to play a higher line, dominate possession and create more chances.

Arsenal have been playing better football since the arrival of Mikel Arteta, but they have only claimed one league victory with the Spaniard on the touchline. The side from North London have dropped far too many points against mediocre and inferior opponents, and this is a trend Steve Bruce hopes continues tomorrow.

More from Newcastle Toons

Both teams struggle to score goals and they are both heavily dependent on one player to carry the load offensively. Arsenal will turn to their top scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to set the tone on the front-line and Newcastle United will hope their dynamic wingers Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron can cause problems on the wing.

Arteta and Bruce have gotten the best out of their defenders in recent weeks, so it will be difficult for either side to create meaningful chances in the final third. Jamaal Lascelles and company will most likely be the busiest of the two defensive units, but if the Toon can hold Arsenal without a goal in the first half, fans should expect a wide open second half where anything can happen.

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Predictions

Newcastle United and Arsenal are known for playing in some competitive games against each other, but the Gunners have dominated the Magpies in London over the last few seasons. The pressure to perform rests on the shoulders of Arsenal more than it does on Newcastle United, but can they find the motivation to get the job done? Carson thinks they will, but I do not.

Carson A. Merk: Arsenal 2-1 Newcastle United
Durim Halimi: Arsenal 1-1 Newcastle United