Arsenal v Newcastle preview

Gunners hope to bounce back against Keegan's Magpies

By James Dall   Last updated: 25th January 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Arsenal v Newcastle preview

Wenger: Looking for reaction

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Skysports.com prediction: Arsenal 2 Newcastle 1

SKY BET odds: Arsenal 4/11 Draw 3/1 Newcastle 13/2

One to Watch: Alexander Hleb

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Nine days after Kevin Keegan's sensational return to Tyneside, the Newcastle United manager takes his troops to Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Keegan's comeback fixture as Magpies boss was an anti-climax as their uninspiring display against Bolton Wanderers last weekend ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

But to be fair to Keegan, he had just 48 hours to impress his promise of inspired football on an unfamiliar crop of players.

On Saturday, though, the Toon Army will be expecting to witness a tinge of evidence that the side is beginning to move on from Sam Allardyce's ethos.

However, Newcastle should be wary of an Arsenal backlash following their Carling Cup humiliation at White Hart Lane on Wednesday evening.

Smarting

Arsene Wenger's side are likely to be smarting from the 5-1 thumping; and Gunners fans will be craving a taste of victory to rid them of the bitter tang that Juande Ramos' men so expertly served up.

Wenger can be expected to change his starting XI on Saturday, with Mathieu Flamini and Tomas Rosicky set for recalls.

Left-back Gael Clichy is available after recovering from a groin problem, while Philippe Senderos has overcome a nose injury and should return to partner William Gallas in defence.

Returns

Robin van Persie (thigh) and Johan Djourou (groin) remain absent, and Brazilian midfielder Denilson has joined them on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury against Spurs.

Keegan is boosted by Alan Smith and Nicky Butt's return from suspension, but Emre remains banned following his red card against Stoke City.

Striker Mark Viduka is rated as doubtful with a calf problem, while Joey Barton could feature following reports that he will transported to and from the stadium by helicopter in order to adhere to his curfew.