Swede Off The Menu!

Reports are starting to hit the wires that Freddie Ljungberg has been ruled out of the clash with Newcastle. With Gilberto also missing for 'family reasons' it is looking increasingly likely that Arsene Wenger will be forced into a 4-4-2 formation with Adebayor coming in up front, and Flamini playing the holding role.

Le Boss is decidedly 'dischuffed' with French coach Domenech for playing Henry and Gallas for the full ninety minutes in the week, but mutterings that the captain may be rested could prove to be wide of the mark.

Julio Baptista is back in contention, but may have to settle for a cameo appearance from the bench as he looks to build match fitness. Jens Lehmann is thankfully fit to return between the posts and, without wishing to offend Manuel Almunia, that is mighty good news!

With Emre suspended Nicky Butt is expected to partner Scott Parker in a combative looking central midfield partnership for the Geordies. It is further forward though that the Magpies have suffered this season as their misfiring attack struggles for goals.

I'm backing Arsenal to win 3-0. Perhaps backing is the wrong word to use. At a miserly 8-1 that doesn't look to offer much value, so I'll probably be having a small wager on 4-0 and 5-0, and praying Newcastle don't strike first. Until tomorrow chums....