Tight affaire at the Emirates?
Arsenal are back in action when they host Steve Bruce's Newcastle at the Emirates on Sunday evening. The Gunners are looking to secure their first 3 pointer since the first of January whilst Newcastle are going to try and extend their 4 game unbeaten run.
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta and co. have spent a portion of the winter break at a training camp in Dubai where Arteta has worked keenly on gelling his side together after an improved, but slightly disappointing run of 4 straight draws.
Mid-table obscurity
The Gunners can be found drifting at 10th, above Sundays opposition only by goal-difference and know that this is somewhat of a must win game if they are to have any chance of qualifying for Europe and regaining a little street-cred.
Improved defence
Clean sheets are seldom witnessed at the Emirates but their defence has been undeniably better since Arteta's arrival, even the likes of Mustafi and David Luiz look like they know what they are doing which is a tremendous improvement compared to what went on during the Emery era.
Defensive improvement at a cost
The issue Arsenal have is a lack of goals, despite the amount of chances created. 6 goals in 5 games is not catastrophic but it is obviously not enough to win games either. This might be the main issue at this point of time for Arsenal but it is also an issue i believe will resolve itself once Lacazette as well as top-scorer Aubameyang find their groove again.
It will be very interesting to see if and how much they have improved during their intensive Dubai training camp.
Newcastle
Steve Bruce has exceeded all expectations with Newcastle and can be found at a respectable 12th spot, only behind Sundays 10th placed opposition on goal difference.
Better than expected
The Magpies have amassed 8 wins, 7 draws and 10 defeats this season which is bang average but they have exceeded expectations meaning morale is high in the Newcastle camp.
The northerners have a few big scalps this season recording victories against Tottenham, Manchester United, Sheffield and Chelsea meaning that they should not be underestimated.
Travelling blues
Newcastle have been poor travellers this season losing 7 and drawing 2 of their 12 away games collecting the unattractive goal difference of -12.
Frustrating to face
However, the magpies are fantastic at frustrating their opponents with their 5 man defence and given that Arsenal have had problems finding their creative boots Newcastle could potentially snatch something.
Betting tip
Arsenal have problems creating chances as well as scoring them and Newcastle's whole game plan is to defend and frustrate their opponents which is why i will be backing Under 2.5 goals at 11/10 with Betway.
