Arsenal travel to St. James’ Park on Saturday after a heart breaking Champions League exit at the hands of Monaco on Tuesday. Arsene Wenger’s side produced a solid away display to run out 2-0 victors on the night, but the away goals rule sealed their fate. Arsene Wenger would be looking to inspire his side to continue their amazing domestic run as they chase a Champions League place. Arsenal are in 3rd position at the moment and with Manchester United and Liverpool hot on their heels, there can be no slip-ups.
Let’s put ourselves in Arsene Wenger’s boots and pick his team to take on Newcastle United on Saturday.
Goalkeeper – David Ospina
David Ospina is unquestionably the first choice in goal for the Gunners.
Defence – Bellerin, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Monreal.
Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal should once again take their place on the defensive flanks while the tried and tested central defensive duo of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker should start at the heart of the backline.
Midfield – Coquelin, Cazorla, Sanchez, Özil, Welbeck.
Coquelin has looked composed and commanding in recent games against United and Monaco, while Santi Cazorla seems to be relishing his central midfield role.
Mesut Özil has been in sensational form of late and would be itching to have a go at a shaky Newcastle defence. Alexis Sanchez is a menace down the right flank while Danny Welbeck’s energy and pace is a handful on the opposite side.
Striker – Olivier Giroud
So much of Arsenal’s attacking play hinges on a target man such as Giroud being on the end of it. The Frenchman is a certainty to start after a series of impressive performances.
