Welcome to the live coverage of Arsenal’s Premier League match against Newcastle United from St. James’ Park.
Both teams go into this evening’s game on the back of contrasting results in the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday night. The Gunners were beaten by West Ham United in east London whilst the Magpies recorded an impressive 3-0 victory away at Manchester United.
Although in the Premier League, across the last five games, they have each picked up 11 points from a possible 15 which sets this clash up nicely as Arsenal know they can open up a 10-point lead over Eddie Howe’s side if they replicate the result from last season’s corresponding fixture.
In terms of team news, the visitors have been handed a huge blow with Martin Odegaard not in the matchday squad, whilst Newcastle have as many as nine senior players – including Sandro Tonali Harvey Barnes and Alexander Isak – unavailable for selection for one reason or another.
Kick-off is at 5.30pm and Tom Canton and Tashan Deniran-Alleyne will be on hand to provide build-up to the game, confirmed team news as well as live updates on the action, analysis and reaction from St James’ Park.
“I don’t know how many checks there were [on the goal] but I was just hoping it was alright. It was amazing to score, what a game.
“It shows our togetherness, we’re a real team and we show that in every game. We’ve had some really good results this year – but we’ve just shown our togetherness.
“It all comes down to the gaffer, how he drills us in training. It doesn’t matter who plays we all know our jobs and what we have to do.”
Newcastle defender Jamal Lascelles:
“A huge battle, Arsenal tested us in every way with their technical ability and a few balls they sent into the box towards the end. Anything they threw at us we dealt with and we had some quality up front too.
“We’ve got great depth, competition in all areas and that’s what it’s all about – we have a lot more games this year. We’re in a good place.
“Whatever test I face I try to do as well as I can and give 110%, I’ve had an opportunity to play and I just give my all for the badge and that’s all I can do.
“We have a quick turnaround now, travel, freshen up and go again.”
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Here’s how it looks at the top of the table as Manchester City go top for now. Crucially, though, Pep Guardiola’s side are now three points ahead of Arsenal with both having played the same number of games.
