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.
