Predicted Arsenal XI vs Newcastle: Unchanged from Brighton win

It was nothing short of joyous being an Arsenal fan at the end of 2022.

The Gunners have not missed a beat despite a lengthy World Cup-induced break, with back-to-back wins helping them extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points. The gap is becoming worryingly big for supporters, who weren’t expecting anything close to a title challenge on the eve of the 2022/23 campaign.

But they just keep on winning.

A tough January awaits the league leaders, however, and their difficult stretch begins against Newcastle in their 2023 opener. The Magpies are the most in-form team in the division that isn’t managed by Mikel Arteta and they currently sit third in the table having not tasted defeat in the league since late August.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Newcastle

Arteta has no fresh concerns on the injury front heading into this midweek encounter, and here’s the starting XI he could pick for the game.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – Ramsdale wasn’t helped by his defence at the Amex last time out as he conceded twice in a Premier League game for the first time since 9 October. He’ll continue in goal on Tuesday night.

Ben White (RB) – White earned a mini-rest at the weekend as he was withdrawn with 20 or so minutes remaining. The England international could have the task of dealing with Allan Saint-Maximin in this one should Eddie Howe hand the Frenchman a start.

William Saliba (CB) – Shake off that Qatari rust, William! Two errors in as many games depict a slight slide in the Frenchman’s form, but his status in Arteta’s starting XI isn’t in doubt.

Gabriel (CB) – I’m really enjoying this cool-headed (sort of) and consistent Gabriel.

Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB) – Zinchenko’s impact was immediate at Brighton and he should retain his place in the team. Arsenal require his technique and press resistance against a well-drilled Newcastle press.

Midfielders

Thomas Partey (DM) – Lesson one for Mikel: never take Thomas Partey off… ever. Chaos ensued at the Amex after his withdrawal on New Year’s Eve as his importance to the Gunners became even clearer.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – It’s been a quiet couple of games for Xhaka after the World Cup, but he’s still performing his midfield function to the standard Arteta desires.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – The Premier League’s most in-form player (arguably) has dazzled supporters with his majesty over the festive period. The skipper’s playing at an extraordinary level, and he’ll be key in breaking down a stubborn Newcastle defence on Tuesday.

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – Saka’s enjoying himself in front of goal as of late. He netted his sixth Premier League strike of the season against Brighton, but he has his work cut out if he’s to add to his tally on Tuesday. Dan Burn, while not the most athletic, can match the Arsenal winger physically and the Magpies will do their utmost to ensure their left-back isn’t left isolated against Saka.

Eddie Nketiah (ST) – Poacher Eddie returned on New Year’s Eve as he scored his second goal in as many games while deputising for Gabriel Jesus. The striker’s doing exactly what he needs to do to succeed as Arsenal’s #9.

Gabriel Martinelli (LW) – Martinelli has produced some huge moments without being overly influential since Arsenal returned to domestic action. His knack for coming up clutch is a convenient trait to boast, and he’s currently undroppable as a result.