Dugout Discussion – Newcastle vs Arsenal

The first of two Sunday fixtures kicks off at 1.30pm as Newcastle United welcome Arsenal to St James’ Park.

With both sides set to play in Gameweek 35 and twice in Double Gameweek 37, today’s fixture affords Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers the chance for early scouting.

Unbeaten in their last six at St James’ Park, the Magpies have conceded just twice in that run and are seeking a fourth successive clean sheet in front of their own supporters.

That resilience hasn’t stopped Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang being named as the ninth most popular captain pick (2.04%), despite Arsenal playing just once in Gameweek 34.

Sold by over 217,000 FPL managers in the clamour to acquire Harry Kane and Romelu Lukaku, the Gabon international has five goals in the last four Gameweeks and averaged 6.4 points per match since arriving in the winter transfer window.

With Arsene Wenger rotating heavily due to the Gunners’ Europa League schedule, the likes of Hector Bellerin, Laurent Koscielny, Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil all miss out altogether.

However, Alexandre Lacazette is named on the teamsheet alongside Aubameyang as he continues to build up his match fitness following a recent stint on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, the 5.1-priced Alex Iwobi has the chance to play his way into our Free Hit chip plans, having delivered two assists against Southampton last weekend.

Similarly, the cut-price Kenedy (4.8) and Ayoze Perez (5.3) have excelled for the Magpies of late, with both bagging two goals and an assist in the last three Gameweeks.