Newcastle United face their toughest test of the Premier League campaign so far by going to the home of leaders Arsenal.
Eddie Howe’s side sit third in the league table but go to the Emirates Stadium on the back of a frustrating goalless draw against Leeds United.
The Magpies have only been beaten once in 2021/22 but that will be tested greatly against the Gunners, who have won all seven of their home matches so far.
“I think we’ll learn a lot,” Howe said. “It’ll be a fascinating and high-level game. I’ve watched a lot of Arsenal this year and been hugely impressed, I think Mikel has done an incredible job.
“You look at the turnaround of the team and how they play, their identity is clear every week. Players look like they’re enjoying their football and playing a high-level game.
“It’s going to be a really good examination of how far we’ve come.”
Howe gave nothing away when asked about potential rotation for the trip to Arsenal, despite this being his side’s second fixture in just three days.
But NewcastleWorld is predicting changes. Here’s the Newcastle starting XI Howe could name:
1. GK: Nick Pope
A clean sheet against Arsenal would be Pope’s 11th of the campaign, and his sixth in a row.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Trippier was heavily involved against Leeds but couldn’t unlock the Leeds defence with his crosses.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Was an aerial threat in Leeds box and had a penalty appeal turned down in the first-half.
4. CB: Sven Botman
Produced a number of vital blocks and interceptions against Leeds to maintain his unbeaten record in a Toon shirt.