Eddie Howe’s side are without a win in their last five league matches but did beat top-flight opposition in Chelsea on Tuesday to advance into the quarter finals of the Carabao Cup.
Howe made five changes for the visit of Chelsea, all of whom impressed. It gives the United boss some difficult selection calls for the encounter against the Gunners.
Emil Krafth and Lloyd Kelly came into the backline versus Chelsea while Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock made an impact in midfield. Anthony Gordon, meanwhile, return to the starting XI after one game out with a groin complaint.
Gordon switched from the left hand side of attack to the right with Joelinton moved into a wide position. His performance, and link up with Willock, gives Howe food for thought.
“It’s a difficult position for me to pick because we have an array of riches on that side with Anthony, Harvey [Barnes], Joe and Joelinton,” admitted Howe. “When Joelinton and Willock play together they dovetail that position really well. I’m not sure what the final solution for that is other than we have got very good players competing for places.
“That’s what I’ve said so many times we need in all areas of the pitch. Today we utilised Anthony on the right, he did fine, Joe Willock and Joelinton did really well down the left, I was really pleased with their solidity.”
Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up against Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.

5. CB: Dan Burn (in for Lloyd Kelly)
Lloyd Kelly has staked a claim to start but Howe has often stuck by Burn. | Getty Images

6. LB: Lewis Hall
The 20-year-old continues to improve with every passing game. Has made the left-back spot his own. | Getty Images

7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes (in for Joe Willock)
Guimaraes started on the bench in midweek but showed his class and experience after being introduced in the second-half. A key player. | Getty Images

8. CM: Sean Longstaff
If you take notice of stats then you'll know Newcastle are yet to lose a game Longstaff has started. | Getty Images