Paul Merson has predicted Arsenal to draw against Newcastle United in their Premier League clash on Sunday afternoon.
The north Londoners saw their title hopes derailed last month, with a run of four winless matches punished by Manchester City's relentless form. City now sit one point clear at the top of the table while also boasting a game-in-hand over their title rivals, who travel to Tyneside to take on Eddie Howe's Newcastle this weekend.
The two sides played out a 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium back in January during the reverse fixture. Now, Merson has claimed that he sees the game at St James' Park going in a similar fashion.
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Writing for Sportskeeda, he said: "This could be the game that finishes Arsenal off in the Premier League title race, as Newcastle United are in incredible form. Eddie Howe and co have been unbelievable at home this season and are well-positioned to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League next season.
"If Arsenal win this, I think the title race could be back on, as Manchester City have a bunch of interesting games coming up. Both Arsenal and Newcastle have played fantastic football this season and this will be a great contest, but unfortunately, I can't see Arsenal winning this one. The pressure will be on them and the Magpies are a tough nut to crack at St. James' Park, so I think this game will finish 1-1."
Mersoon's Prediction: Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal
However, former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has backed the hosts to secure all three points in this one, predicting Howe's side to inflict further misery on the visitors. "I was at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday and Arsenal were very good - but there is an argument that Chelsea made them look very good", Sutton told the BBC.
"I thought Gunners defender Jakub Kiwior had a really good game against the Blues, but stopping an in-form Newcastle side is a much bigger ask. The way the Magpies take the game to teams is great to watch and there is no way whatsoever this one will end goalless again, like it did when they met in January.
"Arsenal need to keep winning to keep the pressure up on Manchester City, and a draw is not enough for them. Sadly for them, I can see Newcastle nicking this and continuing their impressive form."
Sutton's prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Arsenal
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