Shola Ameobi is confident that Newcastle United are ready for a challenging encounter with title-contending Arsenal, despite their recent poor run of form.
Eddie Howe’s side has suffered defeat in their last four matches across all competitions, with their last win coming against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on March 14.
In a broader context, the Magpies have endured eight losses in their last 11 Premier League outings, claiming only three victories, with no team faring worse since January 25.
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners, meanwhile, are in urgent need of a win as they continue their pursuit of the title against league leaders Manchester City.
Ahead of Saturday’s fixture in North London, the former Nigeria international suggested that Newcastle should not feel any added pressure and believes that adhering to their traditional style of play will boost their confidence.
“It’s undoubtedly going to be a tough match. Arsenal are contending for the title, which will add a bit of pressure on them as well,” he remarked.
“Historically, matches against Arsenal have been challenging, but I believe we’ve had some positive outcomes against them in recent years, which can instil confidence.”
Newcastle have struggled traditionally against Arsenal away from home, having failed to secure a win in their last 13 Premier League visits to the Emirates Stadium, recording one draw and 12 losses, and scoring just once in their last nine league matches in North London.
With Mikel Arteta’s team looking to achieve a league double over the six-time FA Cup champions for the first time since the 2020-21 season—after their 2-1 victory at St James’ Park in September—Ameobi believes Howe’s squad should concentrate less on the event itself and more on returning to their core identity.
“There’s no extra pressure. Every match carries its own weight,” he continued.
“Although Arsenal is a strong side, the challenge of playing away from home against a quality opponent is daunting.”
“However, if Newcastle can get back to playing the way they know, which has been difficult in recent weeks, I’m confident they’ll be fine.”
Newcastle’s last nine Premier League encounters have all been decided by a single goal, with three wins and six defeats. In the history of the top flight, only three teams have recorded 10 or more consecutive one-goal games: Everton (10 in 1911), West Ham (10 in 1964-65), and Southampton (12 in 1992).
Ameobi refutes suggestions of Newcastle’s regression
Newcastle United had a memorable 2024-25 season, finishing fifth in the Premier League and clinching the Carabao Cup, ending a 70-year domestic trophy draught.
This season, however, has proven far more testing, with the Magpies currently languishing in 14th place in the league, having exited the FA Cup in the fifth round and being eliminated from the Champions League in the Round of 16 after a heavy loss to FC Barcelona.
Despite these difficulties, Ameobi maintains that the club has not regressed overall, advocating for a more nuanced perspective on the season.
“Nothing has fundamentally changed. You can’t expect to win every season; every competition is challenging,” Ameobi asserted.
“Every other team is improving around us. This year, we’ve competed in numerous tournaments, including the Champions League, which has its own demands and can impact the squad.”
“Injuries have also taken their toll. While it may not appear that we’re where we want to be on paper, this season has been commendable, finishing in Europe—the furthest we’ve achieved in European competition, which is a significant accomplishment.”
“With several matches still to be played, we’ll see where the team lands at the end of the season.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
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