Paul Merson has predicted the results of Newcastle United’s visit to the Emirates Stadium to take on Arsenal.
The end of the season is just two games away, but Eddie Howe’s side still has so much to fight for.
Newcastle United won the Carabao Cup in March, ending an agonising wait for a major trophy. The season will always be remembered for that trophy win, but Champions League qualification would be a handy added incentive.
The Magpies currently sit third in the Premier League table, just two points off their opponents Arsenal, and are in much better form. However, Howe confirmed Joe Willock and Sven Botman are doubtful after picking up new injuries in the last week.
Elsewhere, Joelinton is likely to miss the rest of Newcastle’s season after finally succumbing to a long-term knee problem.
Chris Sutton predicted a draw between Arsenal and Newcastle, but Paul Merson has made a big claim about a huge game at the Emirates.
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Paul Merson claims Newcastle United will be well beaten by Arsenal
Merson predicted Newcastle would lose to Arsenal earlier this week, and now the former Arsenal man has doubled down on his prediction, despite the Magpies already beating the Gunners three times this season.
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Talking to Sportskeeda, Merson said: “Newcastle will be in trouble here.
“I don’t see anything but an Arsenal win. Looking back at last week, Arsenal were 2-0 down and still got a result against Liverpool at Anfield.
“Considering the disappointment in the Champions League, Arsenal will want to ensure they don’t give up on second place in the table. If Newcastle lose this game that puts them in a tricky position.
“Out of all the teams fighting to secure Champions League football, Newcastle have the toughest match on the final day of the season in my opinion.
“Chelsea vs Forest is a virtual shootout, Aston Villa will face Manchester United after the Europa League final and Manchester City Fulham. Newcastle host Everton and that will be a tricky game.
“The only Newcastle United have is their goal difference compared to the others, and they will be hoping not to hurt that too much against Arsenal.”
Eddie Howe broke Newcastle United’s streak against Arsenal this season
Despite their good fortunes this season, Newcastle have not had the best luck against Arsenal in recent years.
The Magpies won just one of 19 games against Arsenal between 2012 and 2021, losing 18 of them.
Eddie Howe Career record vs Arsenal
Games 20
Wins 6
Draws 3
Losses 11
However, Howe can boast that he has won four of the last five games against the Gunners, including two important Carabao Cup victories.
Additionally, Newcastle’s 2-0 win against Arsenal at the Emirates was the first time Howe had ever won against them away from home, ending an eight-game winless run at the ground.
Now he has broken that streak, Howe will be eager to add another win away at Arsenal to his logbook and effectively secure Champions League qualification for Newcastle.