Newcastle vs Arsenal – Combined XI ahead of semi-final clash | OneFootball

Newcastle United host Arsenal in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final this evening.

The Magpies are on the verge of reaching Wembley after winning 2-0 in the first meeting at the Emirates. However, Eddie Howe’s side will not be complacent with Arsenal arriving in the North East in good form. Recent meetings between the teams have been tight and another close contest is expected tonight.

Ahead of their clash at St James’ Park, we’ve selected our Newcastle and Arsenal Combined XI from the players available tonight.

Arsenal vs Newcastle – Combined XI ahead of League Cup semi-final

Goalkeeper: David Raya – Arsenal

David Raya takes the gloves in goal. The Spaniard has made some spectacular saves this season and won the Premier League’s Golden Glove in his debut campaign in North London. Martin Dubravka has deputised well for Newcastle in recent weeks but could lose his place to the returning Nick Pope tonight.

Right-back: Jurrien Timber – Arsenal

Quietly excellent all season, in whatever role he’s been asked to do. Jurrien Timber’s bounce back from the ACL injury that decimated his debut campaign has been remarkable. He’s been almost faultless in an Arsenal shirt.

Centre-back: William Saliba – Arsenal

There was a time when there were doubts whether William Saliba would make it at Arsenal. Three consecutive loan moves were the making of the Frenchman, who is now regarded as one of the premier centre-backs in world football. Still just 23, he could be the bedrock of this team for a decade.

Centre-back: Gabriel – Arsenal

Saliba’s silk sometimes overshadows Gabriel but the big Brazilian is a terrific talent in his own right. A real presence in both boxes and ready to rile up any opposition forward who gets in his way – just ask Erling Haaland.

Left-back: Lewis Hall – Newcastle

Could tonight’s tie see England’s future left-back options go head-to-head? Myles Lewis-Skelly is catching the eye at Arsenal this season, while Lewis Hall has progressed immeasurably in a Newcastle shirt. The latter has three assists in 24 games and was deservedly handed his England debut in November. A problem position might soon have long-term solutions.

Midfield: Declan Rice – Arsenal

If there was a performance that typified what Declan Rice brings to Arsenal, it was perhaps Sunday’s thrashing of Manchester City. Rice was everywhere for Arsenal, with the visitors unable to deal with his tenacity and running power. He will be the driving force in the club’s bid for major trophies this season.

Midfield: Bruno Guimaraes – Newcastle

Having missed the first leg through suspension, Bruno Guimares is back in a big boost to the home side. The Brazil international is a huge favourite at Newcastle, where he has emerged as one of the most complete midfielders in the Premier League. Sandro Tonali’s return has freed Guimaraes into a more advanced role and he has shone this season. No player in the Premier League has won more duels (171).

Midfield: Martin Odegaard – Arsenal

The Arsenal captain has shown signs in recent weeks that he’s getting back to his best. A goal inside two minutes started the rout of Manchester City and Odegaard continues to inject invention into the North London side’s attack. Despite his clear talent, he works as hard as anyone. A star without ego.

Right-wing: Ethan Nwaneri – Arsenal

Arsenal appear to have a superstar in the making. Ethan Nwaneri has looked at home in the first team this season, scoring seven times in 22 appearances, including three Carabao Cup goals. This is a talent who does not turn 18 until next month but leads his Arsenal teammates for goals, shots and shot conversion rate per 90 across all competitions. The future’s bright.

Left-wing: Anthony Gordon – Newcastle

Anthony Gordon has been a big hit since signing for Newcastle from Everton two years ago. He’s returned 40 goals and assists in 93 appearances for the Magpies to become an important player for club and country. A big game player, he netted in the first leg and last season became only the second player in Premier League history to score against all of the ‘Big Six’ in a single season.

Forward: Alexander Isak – Newcastle

For all of Kai Havertz’s quality, Arsenal are crying out for a forward in Alexander Isak’s mould. The Swedish striker has been in electric form in recent weeks, scoring 13 goals in his last 11 league appearances for Newcastle.

Isak is up to 17 goals in the Premier League this season and is challenging Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland for the Golden Boot. It would be no surprise to see clubs send huge offers in Newcastle’s direction this summer.

Read – Five free agents clubs could sign outside the transfer window

See more – No deal: The Premier League transfers that didn’t happen in January

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