It would have been nice to head into the Newcastle fixture knowing that UEFA Champions League qualification was already secured for Arsenal next season, however, last week's North London Derby defeat means the Gunners are doing things the hard way.
A win at St. James' Park would see Mikel Arteta's side climb back above Tottenham and return to fourth place, knowing that another win against Everton on Sunday would be enough to finish in the top four.
The main talking point ahead of tonight's game has been centred around Arsenal's defence, with injuries and suspension potentially leaving them short in numbers. Ben White was not fit enough to start at Spurs and Gabriel Magalhaes appeared to tweak his hamstring during the match before being substituted. Meanwhile, Rob Holding is serving a one-match suspension after picking up a second yellow.
READ MORE: Newcastle vs Arsenal LIVE: Kick-off time, TV channel, confirmed team news, live stream details
Thankfully for Arsenal, White and Gabriel have passed late fitness tests to start. They are joined by Takehiro Tomiyasu and Nuno Tavares at full-back. Mohamed Elneny partners Granit Xhaka in midfield, while Emile Smith Rowe replaces Gabriel Martinelli in attack.
Full Arsenal starting XI vs Newcastle: Ramsdale; Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tavares; Elneny, Xhaka, Odegaard; Smith Rowe, Saka, Nketiah.
Here's how a selection of Arsenal fans reacted on Twitter to the team news. Make sure you let us know your thoughts on the line-up by commenting below or tweeting me @cdavison_afc.
@CoachAlexB: Defense looks solid today! Tavares just has to play his role and not over commit himself forward.
@BryanLeCaptain3: This is actually a good line up. The best he could find in the team.
@JordanXavGeo: That’s a strong line up, people excepted a much weaker side
@micky_sims: Come on boys! Expecting a big performance from ESR, he’s due one! Interesting to see how fit White & Gabriel are; but we had to risk them. Must win game & we are replying on Tavares, Gonna be fun this!
@NickyPetrou: Absolutely overjoyed to see Gab & White starting, I hope they’re both fit because they have been outstanding together this season. Tomi back to his right side is class too, fully expect that flowing into a 3.
