Arsenal v Newcastle preview

Gunners beat Newcastle three times at Emirates last term

By James Dall   Last updated: 29th August 2008

Arsenal v Newcastle preview

Wenger: Keegan clash

Skysports.com prediction: 2-1

Sky Bet odds: Arsenal 4/9, Draw 3/1, Newcastle 15/2

One to Watch: Cesc Fabregas

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Arsenal host Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium in Saturday's evening Premier League fixture with both sides eyeing victory for contrasting reasons.

Arsene Wenger's side were guilty of a below-par display last weekend as Fulham claimed a deserved 1-0 triumph at Craven Cottage.

The loss has seen the Gunners come in for criticism and, while a comfortable midweek UEFA Champions League qualifying win over FC Twente provided temporary respite, Wenger will be eager to prove his side have the credentials to land domestic glory this term.

Newcastle, meanwhile, have impressed during the early stages of the campaign after they secured an opening day draw at Manchester United before downing Bolton Wanderers.

Three points in North London would hand the Magpies their best start to a Premier League season in 13 years, however heading into the encounter Kevin Keegan's men may not be as fresh as the manager had initially anticipated.

The St James' Park club needed extra-time on Tuesday as they claimed a 3-2 success over Coventry City to book their place in the third round of the Carling Cup, and Keegan will be hopeful his players will show no adverse effects when they take on the Gunners.

Team news

Wenger is still without a number of long-term absentees, with Eduardo, Abou Diaby and Tomas Rosicky all still sidelined, however the French tactician is boosted by availability of star midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who made his return from injury against FC Twente.

French captain William Gallas and forward Theo Walcott both sustained slight knee injuries in Wednesday's win over the Dutch outfit, but the duo are expected to be fit for this weekend's clash.

For Newcastle, Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins is set to miss out with groin trouble so Michael Owen could be poised to make his first start of the season, with the England international looking to record four goals in as many games.

Damien Duff and Mark Viduka are sidelined with groin and Achilles injuries respectively, while Geremi's absence (knee) could pave the way for a surprise return for Joey Barton after the midfielder was included in the squad..

Possible starting XIs

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Walcott, Denilson, Fabregas, Nasri, Van Persie, Adebayor.

Newcastle: Given, Beye, Taylor, Coloccini, Enrique, Gutierrez, Butt, Guthrie, N'Zogbia, Smith, Owen.