Post by Deleted on Dec 28, 2013 17:48:54 GMT 1
They don't come much bigger or tougher than Premier League games against The Gooners so following on from the Boxing Day mauling of Stoke there's more terrific action to savour in tomorrows Sunday showdown at St James Park. Almost despite The Toon's current run of form their North London opponents will still be regarded by many as firm favourites to take the points when they meet in what would have been billed as Match of The Day if not for the Chelski, Red Scousers game played later in the day. Regardless of that aspect it has all the hall marks of another enthralling fixture although I'm hoping it's nothing like the classic fight back which has rightfully gone down in Toon folklore as one of the best encounters ever. The idea of having to come back from four nil down again would possibly just tip me over the edge regarding whether or not my heart could take the strain. Much better if The Toon are four nil up at half time and Joe Feckinghere's mate Arsnic Wonga's boys have to drag themselves back into it.
Once again APee doesn't have much to get concerned about injury wise and also has Tiote available for selection following his one game suspension against Stoke. Defensively I don't expect much change, if any, however after an impressive display during the second half against Stoke should Haidara slot in at left back his contest with Walcott will be worth watching. The England international is in fine form on his return from injury and is also getting back on the score sheet. Another point for discussion is whether The Mags manager drops Anita to the bench for Mr T and retains Ben Arfa to supplement the sides attack or sacrifices the more offensive player. It's a tough call as Anita has been neat and tidy in the role he has been given alongside Cabaye, however Tiote was definitely missed against Stoke before they self destructed. No doubt at all the battle in midfield will play a big part in determining which side will come out on top. Hence the defensive capability of Haidara rather than Santon to keep Walcott quiet. One advantage to Newcastle is the loss of Ramsey in that area which severely diminishes the level of quality that Arsenal can call upon. Yet such is their squad depth they can probably take the hit a lot more easily than most Premier League clubs. That said it's goals that win games so for me it's Anita on the bench and Hatem Ben Arfa retained in attack. The rest of the side probably picks itself, however Cabaye, Sissoko, Gouffran and Remy will all need to have their shooting boots on when presented with opportunities to score.
Arsenal have always proven to be a tough nut to crack and this game against the current league leaders will be no exception. Unless there's another set of major incidents heavily in Newcastle's favour, as with The Potters, The Toon will have no other option other than to work hard if they are to take something from the game. Mind you regardless of the final outcome it's a contest I'm looking forward too simply because of the kind of football both sides on their day can serve up.
If offered I'd probably take a draw now before a ball is kicked, but it would be like brandy cream on the Christmas cake to celebrate home win number 201 in some style.
What do you think?
Lights Oot!
Once again APee doesn't have much to get concerned about injury wise and also has Tiote available for selection following his one game suspension against Stoke. Defensively I don't expect much change, if any, however after an impressive display during the second half against Stoke should Haidara slot in at left back his contest with Walcott will be worth watching. The England international is in fine form on his return from injury and is also getting back on the score sheet. Another point for discussion is whether The Mags manager drops Anita to the bench for Mr T and retains Ben Arfa to supplement the sides attack or sacrifices the more offensive player. It's a tough call as Anita has been neat and tidy in the role he has been given alongside Cabaye, however Tiote was definitely missed against Stoke before they self destructed. No doubt at all the battle in midfield will play a big part in determining which side will come out on top. Hence the defensive capability of Haidara rather than Santon to keep Walcott quiet. One advantage to Newcastle is the loss of Ramsey in that area which severely diminishes the level of quality that Arsenal can call upon. Yet such is their squad depth they can probably take the hit a lot more easily than most Premier League clubs. That said it's goals that win games so for me it's Anita on the bench and Hatem Ben Arfa retained in attack. The rest of the side probably picks itself, however Cabaye, Sissoko, Gouffran and Remy will all need to have their shooting boots on when presented with opportunities to score.
Arsenal have always proven to be a tough nut to crack and this game against the current league leaders will be no exception. Unless there's another set of major incidents heavily in Newcastle's favour, as with The Potters, The Toon will have no other option other than to work hard if they are to take something from the game. Mind you regardless of the final outcome it's a contest I'm looking forward too simply because of the kind of football both sides on their day can serve up.
If offered I'd probably take a draw now before a ball is kicked, but it would be like brandy cream on the Christmas cake to celebrate home win number 201 in some style.
What do you think?
Lights Oot!
Don't recall seeing a more deliberate foul inside the box this season!!!
