Mikel Arteta: It's a big one against Newcastle

Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has said that the upcoming game against Newcastle United is "a big one" and that his team will have to embrace the challenge of playing at St James' Park.

"It’s a big one," said Arteta at his recent press conference. "It’s one of the toughest places to go and win. We've done it and there is nothing new to it, we know what we’re expecting.

"It is very clear what they do, what their strengths are, and where the opportunities are for us. We will try to take the game where we want."

The Arsenal boss continued: "When you play football, you want to play in those atmospheres. Like going to Seville, you know what you are going to get. It’s an incredible privilege to play at those grounds.

"You have to embrace the moment, enjoy it and go for it because it’s worth it. These are the arenas you want to be tested in."

The Gunners come into this game on the back of a 3-0 loss to West Ham United in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. However, they have good form in the league and must aim to maintain that. They are currently Second in the table, two points behind leaders Tottenham Hotspur. 

A win against Newcastle would help them gain three valuable points in the title race and put pressure on their rivals. Arsenal have won four of their last five league games, scoring 15 goals and conceding only four.