Preview: Newcastle vs Arsenal

Steve McClaren will be hoping his side can build on an impressive point at Old Trafford last weekend as they take on Arsenal at St James’ Park at Saturday lunchtime.

Daryl Janmaat is back from suspension for the Magpies, whilst Moussa Sissoko faces a late fitness test on a groin injury. If Sissoko fails to make it then Florian Thauvin – who scored one and set up three on his full debut against Northampton on Tuesday – is in line to make his first Premier League start.

Newcastle have lost their last seven against Arsenal and haven’t beaten the Gunners at home since Nobby Solano’s goal saw them win 1-0 in 2005. Papiss Cisse has recovered from an illness and will make his 100th Premier League appearance if he features in the match.

Arsenal, who have had a disappointing start with four points from their opening three games, are suffering from injuries to key players in their back four, with Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker both doubtful.

The pair also missed the game against Liverpool on Monday, in which Calum Chambers and Gabriel deputised at centre-half and, largely thanks to Petr Cech, kept a clean sheet in the goalless draw

Danny Welbeck and Jack Wilshere remain out for the visitors, who are hoping that their strong recent away form – six wins from the last seven on the road – continues.

Arsene Wenger will also be looking to Olivier Giroud to keep his impressive record against Newcastle going; the France international striker has scored eight goals in six games against the Toon Army.

League Position: Newcastle – 17th, 2pts; Arsenal – 9th, 4pts
Last Meeting: Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal, 21 March 2015
Key Men: Newcastle – Florian Thauvin; Arsenal – Alexis Sanchez
Form: Newcastle: DLD; Arsenal – LWD
Shoot Says: Newcastle United 2-2 Arsenal