Gunners Looking Strong As Keegan Patches Up His Troops!
Last updated : 30 August 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
Captain William Gallas and forward Theo Walcott (both knee) have recovered from minor knocks picked up in the midweek Champions League victory over FC Twente, while winger Samir Nasri has shaken off a virus.
Midfielder Cesc Fabregas came through unscathed following his return from a hamstring problem, but new signing Mikael Silvestre (thigh), Tomas Rosicky (hamstring), Abou Diaby (thigh), Amaury Bischoff (groin) and striker Eduardo (leg) remain in recovery.
ARSENAL (from): Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Walcott, Fabregas, Denilson, Nasri, Adebayor, van Persie, Fabianski, Ramsey, Wilshere, Djourou, Gibbs, Song, Bendtner, Eboue.
Joey Barton could make a surprise return to the Newcastle squad.
Barton, who is due to face Football Association disciplinary chiefs next Friday after admitting a charge of violent conduct, may be drafted in following James Milner's departure for Aston Villa and the news that Geremi has a knee ligament injury.
Michael Owen could start with manager Kevin Keegan down to the bare bones with Obafemi Martins (groin), Mark Viduka (Achilles), Damien Duff (knee), Claudio Cacapa (hamstring) and Andy Carroll (heel) all sidelined.
NEWCASTLE (from): Given, Harper, Beye, N'Zogbia, Taylor, Coloccini, Enrique, Bassong, Tozer, Edgar, Butt, Geremi, Guthrie, Barton, Jonas, Smith, Owen, Donaldson, Ranger.