Eddie Howe’s side were thumped 7-2 by Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 second leg tie and have followed that up with three consecutive Premier League defeats to Sunderland, Crystal Palace and AFC Bournemouth.
The Magpies currently sit 14th in the Premier League and with hopes of qualifying for Europe all-but over, the pressure has mounted on manager Eddie Howe.
Arsenal, meanwhile, fell off the top of the table in midweek following Manchester City’s 1-0 win at relegated Burnley.
With Pep Guardiola’s side in FA Cup semi-final action against Southampton, the Gunners will return to top spot if they avoid defeat against Newcastle.
Howe has some big selection calls to make. Who starts in goal? Is Bruno Guimaraes fit to start? And what about the striker position? Will Osula has scored in his last two matches but supporters are keen to see Nick Woltemade reinstated up top.
Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up:
Pope has watched the last eight matches from the bench but could be recalled to try and counter Arsenal’s threat from set pieces.
1. GK: Nick Pope (in for Aaron Ramsdale)
Pope has watched the last eight matches from the bench but could be recalled to try and counter Arsenal’s threat from set pieces. | Getty Images
Miley has looked just as much as a right-back as he has as a midfielder when deployed there over the festive period.
2. RWB: Lewis Miley
Miley has looked just as much as a right-back as he has as a midfielder when deployed there over the festive period. | Getty Images
Thiaw only joined last summer but his appearance against Arsenal will be his 50th appearance in black and white. Impressive.
3. CB: Malick Thiaw
Thiaw only joined last summer but his appearance against Arsenal will be his 50th appearance in black and white. Impressive. | AFP via Getty Images
Arsenal ask questions physically and Botman will need to rise to the challenge.
4. CB: Sven Botman
Arsenal ask questions physically and Botman will need to rise to the challenge. | Getty Images