Arsenal will return to league action after a two-week winter break in the Middle East. The Gunners will host Steve Bruces’ side Newcastle United.

Arsenal have shared the spoils with their last four opponents in the league, results that has seen them go further away from champions league qualification.

The North London club are currently placed 10th on the log, 10 points behind Chelsea, who hold the final Champions League spot. The Gunners bid to move closer to Chelsea will make the match a must-win for Mikel Arteta and his men.

Considering that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta can count on key players for the Newcastle United game, home win should be considered.

The Magpies, on the other hand, are undefeated in the previous four league fixtures, but the Gunners are likely to pose a much bigger threat for the visitors than their previous rivals.

In the first half of the season, Arsenal defeated Newcastle 1-0 through an effort from Aubameyang, at St. James’ Park, and you should bear in mind that the Gunners are eyeing their fourth consecutive triumph over the Magpies.

Club captain and top scorer Aubameyang missed their last three matches through suspension – he received a straight red card for a poor tackle against Crystal Palace – before he made his return against Burnley, he will be available to add to his 14 league goals this season, while summer signing Nicolas Pepe will have another opportunity to impress.

French striker Lacazette have struggled for goals so far this season, he has gone over a year without an away league goal, but Mikel Arteta can count on his form at the Emirates stadium.

Arsenal have enjoyed considerable success over Newcastle in the league over the years, they have won eight out of nine meetings between the two sides,  and Mikel Arteta will hope his boys can keep the good run going.