Callum Wilson returns but eight players absent from Newcastle United starting XI v Arsenal

Eddie Howe has named one change to his Newcastle United starting XI to take on Arsenal - recalling Callum Wilson in place of Chris Wood.

The Magpies No.9 starts a Premier League match for the first time since the World Cup break after recovering from illness.

Wilson was left out of the squad for the 3-0 win at Leicester City on Boxing Day and wasn’t fit enough to start against Leeds United, according to Howe.

Nick Pope retains his place in goal, with Martin Dubravka named on the bench after being recalled his loan spell at from Manchester United.

Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman and Dan Burn continue as the back four. Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff form the midfield three.

Wilson leads the line with Miguel Almiron and Joelinton either side. Allan Saint-Maximin remains among the substitutes.

“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.”

Missing from the squad is Karl Darlow, Loris Karius and Ryan Fraser. Alexander Isak (thigh), Jonjo Shelvey (calf), Matt Targett (heel), Paul Dummett (back) and Emil Krafth (ACL) were ruled out prior to the match.