Arsenal fans have a lot to say as lineup vs Newcastle confirmed, they share one big concern

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Arsenal’s lineup for their trip to face Newcastle United has now been confirmed, and there are several key changes.

William Saliba has returned from his one-game suspension, which saw him miss Arsenal’s draw with Liverpool, whilst Mikel Arteta has been handed further boosts.

Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Magalhaes were both withdrawn against Liverpool, but whilst Timber featured against Preston North End in midweek, Gabriel’s absence was a concern.

However, both start in a strong side, with Saliba and Gabriel paired together again, but Ben White is only fit enough for the bench.

This means that Thomas Partey starts at right-back, but whilst he was excellent against Liverpool, fans are concerned about his position against Newcastle.

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Arsenal fans concerned about Thomas Partey vs Newcastle

Partey’s recent form has been excellent, but given that he is naturally a midfielder rather than a right-back, fans are concerned that Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon could give him a rough time in 1v1 duels.

“Biggest threat has to be Gordon on that left hand side against Partey. Got to help in that area where we can,” one fan posted on X.

“Small anxiety regarding Partey Vs Gordon ngl,” another claimed.

“Partey is trusted at RB now, he does look athletically better, but vs. Gordon is his biggest 1v1 test yet,” another stated.

“Partey Vs Gordon and Isak is a little worrying lol,” one pointed out.

“Partey was incredible last week but I’m very nervous. Gordon is much quicker than him and an entirely different test,” a fan pondered.

Mikel Arteta picks strong Arsenal XI vs Newcastle

After a few weeks which saw several players miss out through injury, Arteta is edging closer to his ideal starting lineup, and his selection against Newcastle is a strong one.

Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White and Martin Odegaard are the biggest absences, but the return of Gabriel, the strong form of Partey and Bukayo Saka’s comeback from a small injury have all been huge boosts.

Despite his form, Partey is the clear weak link in the back four, but he could end up playing an inverted role to allow him to tuck into midfield, whilst Declan Rice and Mikel Merino will bring physicality to the middle of the park for what could be a venomous game at St James’ Park.