Newcastle United vs Arsenal: Wobbling Gunners arrive on Tyneside knowing it's a must win

Mikel Arteta's side took the unusual step of playing with a 4-3-3 formation at Spurs on Thursday night but all of their plans were ripped up when Rob Holding was sent off.

The Gunners usually go with a 4-2-3-1 system - which they've used 25 times this season - but Eddie Howe is likely to go with the 4-3-3 formation that has served him well throughout the campaign. Compared to Man City and Liverpool this game is certainly a little bit less daunting for Howe and co.

Although, given the pain of that North London defeat for Arsenal and the must win nature of this fixture, they probably could not be lining up to face Arteta's side at a worse time.

Opting for a positive mentality last week, when a draw at City was my brave call, backfired in spectacular style as Newcastle were trounced. There was logic in the fact that many wondered if Man City would have a European hangover after being beaten against Real Madrid.

But the reality is, class shows at this stage of the season and having wasted their own clear-cut opportunity to take the lead they were punished. The one potential weakness could be the suspension of Rob Holding.

Holding is suspended after committing a series of fouls at Spurs meaning Ben White may get the chance to impress. The England defender is not quite fit after injury and could one to be probed.

Arsenal don't draw many games, just three in all, but I think the obstreperous atmosphere might be too much for the Gunners. Here's to a final night home win at St James'.

Darren England (Doncaster)

Last in charge of a Newcastle game away to Palace which ended 1-1 in November.

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