Arsenal team news: Expected XI vs Newcastle with two stars nearing return

Arteta invites Wenger to return to Arsenal in some capacity

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may make a couple of changes following last Saturday’s 4-0 loss at Liverpool. Newcastle are the visitors at lunchtime today, with Eddie Howe set to be present for the first time as Magpies boss after testing negative for coronavirus on Friday. Express Sport looks at the Arsenal XI Arteta is expected to pick.

Goalkeeper – Ramsdale

Aaron Ramsdale was on form against Liverpool but couldn’t do anything about three of the Reds’ goals.

He may have been disappointed with Sadio Mane’s opener after getting a good hand to the forward’s header but failed to keep it out.

But he has no worries about his long-term spot in Arteta’s side.

Bernd Leno is set to stay at the club beyond January but will have to settle for appearances in cup competitions for the time being.

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Defence – Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tierney

One change from the defeat to Liverpool sees Kieran Tierney come back into the starting XI.

Tierney has not started for the Gunners since the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace on October 18.

Summer signing Nuno Tavares has impressed but was guilty of gifting Liverpool their second goal last weekend and could make way.

Takehiro Tomiyasu tasted defeat in an Arsenal shirt for the first time at Anfield.

He will keep his place on the right of defence, with Ben White and Gabriel playing centrally.

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Midfield – Partey, Sambi Lokonga; Odegaard

Arteta could think about a couple of changes in midfield.

Thomas Partey didn’t look 100 per cent fit vs Liverpool but another week of training should mean he starts.

Albert Sambi Lokonga was dragged off by Arteta after a poor start to the second half and Ainsley Maitland-Niles could run him close for a spot in today’s team.

A slight change in formation sees Martin Odegaard start after four successive substitute appearances.

Attack – Saka, Aubameyang, Smith Rowe

Odegaard comes into the side in place of Alexandre Lacazette.

Lacazette has started the last four matches but has not scored in that time.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was not at his best against Liverpool but will keep his spot after scoring in four of the last five home matches.

Emile Smith Rowe has been the standout player so far this season for the Gunners.

He and Bukayo Saka will once again keep club-record signing Nicolas Pepe out of the team.

Arsenal’s expected line-up vs Newcastle in full: Ramsdale; Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tierney; Partey, Sambi Lokonga; Saka, Odegaard, Smith Rowe; Aubameyang.

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