Arsenal vs Newcastle United Match Preview

Olivier Giroud

   Arsenal will need to overcome their hangover from Monaco trip when they face Newcastle United at St. James' Park this weekend. Though they won 2-0 in Monte Carlo in what was a very demanding game physically as well as mentally, it was not enough for Gunners to qualify for QFs. They'll need to put everything behind and concentrate on League where they are playing incredibly well.

   They have chased down Manchester United and are just a point behind 2nd placed Manchester City. They have an outside chance of winning the Title, which I don't think can be won. Anyways, we still have lot of things to play for.

   The next opponents for the Londoners are not enjoying best of times. They have only won 1 of their last 6 matches. But their biggest concern is injuries. Magpies only have 13 outfield players fit for the match besides 2 keepers. Despite of hard times, they don't have much to worry as they are comfortably placed at 11th and 10 points above drop zone but they should forget about European football for the next season.

   As for Wenger's men, they are in fine form winning last 5 matches in all competition. They enjoy excellent record against the toons winning last 6 matches of their rivalry. Last two seasons have produced 2 tough games in Tyneside which Arsenal sneaked past 1-0 on both the occasion.

   Arsene is likely to make a few changes tomorrow. Sanchez is likely to be rested and Cazorla/Özil may move to left flank. Fit again Gabriel may come in for Koscielny who has been playing almost every week since his return from injury. Ramsey should return to starting lineup. But Welbeck/Walcott decision will make Wenger to ponder his thoughts over.

Here is my starting XI vs Newcastle United
Ospina, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Gabriel, Monreal, Coquelin, Ramsey, Özil, Cazorla, Walcott, Giroud.

Player to watch - Olivier Giroud: HFB has been in fine from since his return from injury. He has scored 13 goals since then and total 15 this season. He is currently on a run of 4 goals in as many starts and is likely to continue in same vein against the Tyneside club who has let him score 6 times in past 5 meetings.