Arsenal: 3 big selection decisions for Arteta vs Newcastle

2. Bring Ainsley Maitland-Niles Back Into Midfield

When Sambi Lokonga was seen struggling in the second half against Liverpool, Arteta made the quick decision to replace him with Ainsley Maitland-Niles after just eight minutes.

It was a substitution that said two things: Sambi needed protecting as the passes got looser and looser, and there is trust in Maitland-Niles to help calm matter down for Arsenal in that instance.

That opens the door for Maitland-Niles to get another start in the Premier League, following on from very decent outings in his previous home fixtures against Leeds and Watford. But, it doesn’t have to be for Sambi, as Thomas Partey may too make way.

In a game where Arsenal need to win, not playing a fit Partey would be a baffling call. Yet having seen him look off the pace somewhat at Anfield having not played for two weeks, in an effort to manage his workload ahead of trips to Old Trafford and Goodison Park, there is scope for another Sambi and Maitland-Niles pivot with the possible introduction of the Ghanaian late on.

The calls are primarily for Sambi to drop out though, and Partey not starting would be a very surprising (and silly) call.

If there is to be a midfield change it will probably see the Belgian on the bench ahead of two trips north, although nothing is out of the question as the fixtures pile up.

Verdict: Maitland-Niles will play

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