Paul Merson predicts the winner for the upcoming Newcastle Vs Arsenal matchday

Coming on the back of a convincing 2-0 win against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, Newcastle are scheduled to face Arsenal at their home next. Considering the recent forms of both clubs, with Arsenal having a single game lost this season compared to Newcastle being winless in the last 5 PL games, the Gunners enter the fixture as the favorites.

Paul Merson predicts the winner for the upcoming Newcastle Vs Arsenal matchday

However, given the fact that Newcastle United enjoys the crucial home advantage, they can't be ruled out completely. While certainly, the Magpies Club would need to put their all into the much-awaited clash, where both sides desperately need the complete 3 points, chances could arise in their favor influenced by Arsenal's key injury absences.

As per reports, the Gunners would be without their club captain Martin Odegaard once again, and as is evident from their last 2 PL games, the midfielder's absence could mean significantly in Newcastle's favor. Moreover, with the Magpies' club's star forward Alexander Isak nearing his best, having scored twice since his injury return, Eddie Howe's side find themselves in contention for a win here.

However, Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson feels otherwise, as he predicts his scoreline for the awaited clash between the two sides. Although the former Arsenal star acknowledged Newcastle's performance against Chelsea recently, Merson doesn't feel they can replicate it in the upcoming matchday. Speaking on Newcastle's chances, Merson mentioned,

"“Newcastle beat Chelsea during the cup game in midweek, but I doubt they can back it up with another win on Saturday. Arsenal win for me in this one.""

- Paul Merson

While Paul considered Toon stars Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon to be real challenges for his former club, he thinks Newcastle's backline would let them down this time. Pointing out their problems in their defense line, Merson said,

""Alexander Isak seems to have returned to form, and Anthony Gordon is always a threat with his pace. But I feel they are too open at the back, and good teams can always pick them apart.""

- Paul Merson

Overall, Paul Merson has backed Arsenal for an away win, getting home with the complete 3 points and registering a 2-1 scoreline in the end. Analyzing all the factors, this could be an apt prediction for the matchday; however, Newcastle fans would want their side to replicate their heroics of the 2023/24 campaign, the way they defeated the Gunners at home.