3 talking points ahead of Arsenal vs Newcastle

2. No Merino, but a Rice return

Having been shown yellow cards at Anfield last week, Mikel Merino is serving a one-game suspension, meaning he misses the visit of Newcastle.

With his absence, the Gunners will be short in both attack and midfield, but the hopeful return of Declan Rice should help ease that. Mikel Arteta confirmed the England international was involved in training and with his fellow midfielder unavailable, it is likely he will be brought back into the side.

Leandro Trossard will be the obvious candidate to continue up top, but a case can be made for Gabriel Martinelli, who impressed when operating in the striker role during the second-half at Anfield. Either way, Arteta may have to shift a few things around on Sunday.

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