A central defensive dilemma
From a position where it looked like they would be struggling for centre-halves, Newcastle suddenly find themselves with three strong candidates for a starting spot tomorrow.
Chancel Mbemba and Fabricio Coloccini started the opening two games of the season, but with Mbemba switching to right-back to cover for the suspended Daryl Janmaat last weekend, Steven Taylor returned to the side to produce a hugely impressive display at Old Trafford.
Taylor is likely to be the player to miss out tomorrow, with Steve McClaren hinting that he sees the 29-year-old as his first reserve.
McClaren said: “What he needs to do is what he’s doing – stay fit and be ready when he’s called upon.”
Should Sissoko be guaranteed a spot?
The expectation is that if Moussa Sissoko can prove his fitness following a groin injury, he will be straight back into the starting line-up after a two-game absence. But should the Frenchman still be regarded as an automatic pick?
The arrival of Florian Thauvin has provided yet more competition for the wide attacking positions, with Gabriel Obertan and Ayoze Perez already having pressed their claims this season. Rolando Aarons, while still young, will also be desperate for more first-team action this term.
Sissoko’s drive and energy make him a valuable midfield asset, but over the course of his Newcastle career, his end product has occasionally been lacking. If he doesn’t improve that part of his game, he could quickly find his place in the side coming under threat.
What is the best way to shackle the Arsenal midfield?
They can be shaky at the back, and don’t really possess a top-class centre-forward. But on their day, Arsenal’s midfielders can form the best central unit in the Premier League.
If the early weeks of the season are anything to go by, Newcastle can expect to face Mezut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Santi Cazorla tomorrow, with either Aaron Ramsey or Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain completing the midfield line up.
That is some prospect, and both Vurnon Anita and Jack Colback will have to be at their best if the Magpies are to end a run of nine consecutive home games against Arsenal without a victory.
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