Arsenal will look to take advantage of Newcastle's injury woes as they host the Magpies at the Emirates Stadium in the late kick-off in the Premier League.
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United: Gunners aim to kick Newcastle while they’re down
Arsenal will look to make the most of Newcastle United’s injury crisis as they face off in Saturday’s late game.
The Gunners are in need of some consistent form and will be aided by Newcastle suffering huge problems in both midfield and defence, which should give their attackers plenty of opportunities. Gervinho, Theo Walcott and Lukas Podolski are all expected to start, although Olivier Giroud is likely to return to the squad.
Newcastle, meanwhile, will hope they can pick up a valuable win after coming close to getting something from their visit to Old Trafford, but will know that they have a hard task ahead. How Alan Pardew composes his makeshift midfield and defence will be interesting, but with Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse both available, attacking may be their best option.
Arsenal suspensions and injuries
Out: Andre Santos (stomach muscle), Abou Diaby (thigh), Lukasz Fabianski (foot). In doubt: Olivier Giroud (illness), Tomas Rosicky (illness).
Newcastle United suspensions and injuries
Out: Mike Williamson (suspended), Vurnon Anita (ankle), Jonas Gutierrez (knee), Yohan Cabaye (groin), Hatem Ben Arfa (hamstring), Steven Taylor (hamstring), Ryan Taylor (knee), Dan Gosling (knee), Haris Vuckic (knee).
Arsenal could see the return of Olivier Giroud to the side along with Tomas Rosicky as both return from illnesses. Andre Santos remains unavailable, while Abou Diaby is still out.
Newcastle are still suffering from a swathe of injuries to both midfield and defence, with Hatem Ben Arfa and Yohan Cabaye still out, along with Vurnon Anita after picking up an injury against Manchester United. Mike Williamson is also now suspended, with Steven and Ryan Taylor also unavailable in defence.
Match Date\Time: Saturday, 5:30 p.m. local, 12:30 p.m. ET
Venue: The Emirates Stadium, London, England
TV: Fox Soccer Channel (U.S. English), Fox Deportes (U.S. Spanish), Sky Sports 2, Sky Sports 3D (U.K.), Sportsnet World (Canada)
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