By Tony Mogan

Copyright metro

Saka is back from injury (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal head to Newcastle United this weekend with the chance to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool.

Victory for the Gunners this afternoon will see them move to within two points of Arne Slot’s side after their defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

But Arsenal did not find it easy up against Eddie Howe’s side last season, beaten on Tyneside in November in the league and losing home and away in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

Bukayo Saka made his return from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for three games off the bench against Manchester City.

There were a few nervous glances on the Arsenal bench when the England international was left in a heap following a heavy challenge against Port Vale in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday but his manager eased any fears over his availability this weekend.

As Saka returns, the man who filled in so admirably for him takes his place on the sidelines. Noni Madueke is looking at six to eight weeks after suffering what is suspected to be a medial knee ligament injury.

Martin Odegaard meanwhile has not featured since limping off in the first-half against Nottingham Forest having injured the same shoulder he hurt against Leeds in the second week of the season.

Saka came off after an hour against Port Vale (Picture: Getty)

The Norway international is believed to be well on the mend however and will be pushing to return this weekend.

Arsenal remain without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus with Piero Hincapie also still nursing a hamstring injury.

Newcastle meanwhile remain without Jacob Ramsey and summer signing Yoane Wissa but Anthony Gordon is available once again having served his suspension.

Arsenal XI to face Newcastle – Metro prediction

Saka will surely start after getting an hour under his belt midweek. Odegaard will also hope to return alongside Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in midfield.

Newcastle vs Arsenal TV channel and kick-off time

Newcastle vs Arsenal takes place on Sunday 28 September with kick-off scheduled for 4:30pm.

You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.

You can also follow all the action with Metro’s LIVE blog.