After a commanding victory for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal this weekend, all eyes are now on their Carabao Cup second-leg clash against Newcastle this week. We spoke with former Newcastle star Chris Waddle to preview the match, which could see Eddie Howe’s side reach their second final in three seasons and, more importantly, bring a trophy back to St James’s Park.
In this article:
- St James’ Will Be Tough for Arsenal
- Newcastle’s Fatigue and Injuries a Concern
- Waddle’s Prediction for the Tie
St James’ Will Be Tough for Arsenal
Newcastle fans will be anxious following their second consecutive defeat at St James’ Park, which saw Fulham come from behind to win 2-1 on Saturday. Their next challenge comes in the form of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who are fresh off their impressive 5-1 win over Manchester City at the Emirates. Newcastle currently hold a 2-0 lead over Arsenal and will be aiming to avoid a third consecutive defeat on Wednesday. Waddle, who keeps a close eye on the Magpies, believes Newcastle’s recent setbacks will give Arsenal hope of overcoming their two-goal deficit.
“Newcastle have a 2-0 lead. Arsenal, of course, are playing in the Champions League. With nearly a month between the two legs, that’s quite unusual.
“Newcastle have a busy schedule ahead, with FA Cup and league games coming up. They’ll be ready for Wednesday night against Arsenal. Arsenal, meanwhile, could end up playing a couple of games more than Newcastle, which will make it very tough for them at St James’ Park. They’ll probably be looking at what Bournemouth and Fulham did against Newcastle.”
Newcastle’s Fatigue and Injuries a Concern
Newcastle’s smaller squad may be starting to feel the pressure of a long and demanding season, with much still to play for. The defeat to Fulham was made worse by an injury to Joelinton, who is now a doubt for Wednesday’s clash with Arsenal. The Brazilian midfielder came off with a knee injury during the match against Fulham.
“Newcastle are starting to feel the pace now. They’ve had a great run, with nearly the same team playing every game. Are they beginning to feel the fatigue? There’s going to be a lot of pressure on Newcastle. Arsenal have nothing to lose, they’ve got big players who’ve been there and done it. The atmosphere at St James’ will be electric. If Arsenal score first, you may see panic set in.”
Waddle’s Prediction for the Tie
Despite the injury to Joelinton, Waddle believes that Newcastle will just about manage to get over the line against Arsenal, though he acknowledges the tough challenge ahead for Howe’s men.
“It’s an intriguing tie. You’d think Newcastle, being at home, would have enough to score and progress, but we all know that Newcastle have struggled to get over the line and win trophies.
“We don’t know what Arsenal’s injury situation will be, but whatever happens, Newcastle will be under pressure. On paper, I’d say Newcastle have enough to go through, but it’s going to be a tough match for them.”
Newcastle are priced at 21/10 on bet365 to come out on top against the Gunners, which could be a tempting bet for some punters who fancy Eddie Howe’s side to hit the visitors on the counter-attack.
