Mikel Arteta admits there is ‘history’ with Newcastle as Arsenal take on the Magpies in the Premier League this weekend.
Arsenal host Newcastle tomorrow evening as the Gunners look to continue their perfect league form to start the new year. Arteta’s side have won five consecutive league games, scoring 21 goals, but take on a Newcastle team who beat them in the reverse fixture in November.
Recent clashes with Newcastle have had an element of spice as both teams compete at the top end of the division and Arteta admits there is ‘history’ ahead of an important game for his side.
“With every club there is always history and we know the importance of the game, so we just focus on what we have to do,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference.
“They have changed a little bit and have some players who aren’t available. Every game is different.
“They are a really good team and are really well coached. They have a great spirit within the team and are difficult to beat.”
Arsenal will be looking to bounce back from a late Champions League defeat at Porto in midweek and Arteta has called for a reaction from his side.
“I see a team that can’t wait to play Porto at home now. We’ve created a fantastic night of Champions League for our people. The task is very clear now.
“Porto is gone, we discussed it. You lose it in the last second. We can’t lose sight of where we are and what we’re doing. That’s where our main focus is.
“There’s a reaction that we need and we want to create an atmosphere from the beginning so I ask all to go with big energy because we need it. Tomorrow’s game is vital.”
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