Mikel Arteta facing some big decisions for trip to St James’ Park
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Martin Odegaard is set to return to the Arsenal team against Newcastle.
Odegaard has missed the last three Arsenal games after aggravating a shoulder injury but Mikel Arteta hopes his captain come make his comeback at St James’ Park.
“Martin will be training with us the next two days, so hopefully he will be available for the game,” he said.
Arteta made nine changes for Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Port Vale in the Carabao Cup and is expected to make a similar number this weekend.
David Raya is due to return in goal, with Gabriel, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori set to be reinstated to the defence.
Martin Zubimendi was given a night off on Wednesday, while Declan Rice only played the final 10 minutes, meaning both are fresh for Sunday.
Odegaard should join them in midfield, but if he is not ready to start then Mikel Merino may get the nod again.
Bukayo Saka is set to start his first Premier League game since last month after returning from a hamstring injury last weekend
Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze
Doubts: Odegaard
Injured: Jesus (knee), Havertz (knee), Hincapie (groin), Madueke (knee)
Time and date: 4.30pm BST on Sunday, September 29, 2025
Venue: St. James’ Park
