Preview: Arsenal vs. Newcastle United

Newcastle United travel to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal on Saturday as they look to end a miserable run of form that has seen them win just two games since October.

The Magpies have failed to scale the heights of last season and are struggling in 15th place.

Alan Pardew's cause has not been helped by injuries to a number of his key players, meaning that Romain Amalfitano could make his first league appearance for the club.

Jonas Gutierrez (knee), Vurnon Anita (ankle), Hatem Ben Arfa, Steven Taylor (hamstring) and Yohan Cabaye (groin) are all missing, while Cheik Tiote and Mike Williamson serve suspensions.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have eyes on fourth place, currently occupied by North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Tomas Rosicky (knock) and Olivier Giroud (illness) are both doubtful, while Andre Santos (abdominal) and Abou Diaby (thigh) are certain to sit out.

Recent form

Arsenal: DDLWWW

Newcastle: LWLLWL

Possible lineups

Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Vermaelen, Mertesacker, Gibbs; Arteta, Cazorla, Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain; Podolski, Walcott

Newcastle: Krul; Perch, Simpson, Coloccini, Santon; Amalfitano, Obertan, Marveaux, Bigirimana; Cisse, Ba

Sports Mole says: 3-1