Newcastle United’s confirmed starting XI v Arsenal: Key player absent as Eddie Howe makes big call

Eddie Howe has named one change to his Newcastle United starting XI against Arsenal as Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson both start.

The Magpies’ head coach opted to rotate both players during the month of April. They start a Premier League match together for the first time since becoming teammates last summer.

Incredibly, the duo were nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award. Wilson scored eight goals, despite making just two starts, while Isak netted four times in five starts.

Wilson replaces January signing Anthony Gordon in the line-up and starts as the central striker. Isak moves out to the left-hand side.

Asked about the prospect of starting the pair on Friday, Howe said: “It’s not the first time the temptation has been there to start them together,” Howe told reporters on Friday. “When you’re analysing the next game you have to look at your opponents, yourselves and pick the best team to win the game. That is no different. I have thought lots of different scenarios.

“My end decision has to be - what does the team need? Not what Callum or Alex needs. It is possible the team needs Callum and Alex, but that’s always been the case. It’s up to me to make the right call.”

Allan Saint-Maximin returns to the bench after a four-week layoff with a hamstring issue. Meanwhile, Sean Longstaff misses the game due to a calf injury.

Here’s Newcastle United’s starting XI and subs in full:

Get the latest Newcastle United headlines with our free football newsletter! Follow the action from St James’ Park and beyond as we bring the sport news to you. Visit our website here to sign up.