Sean Longstaff is hopeful to return for Newcastle United’s crucial top-three clash against Arsenal, adding a new challenge for the Gunners.

• Sean Longstaff may return for the Arsenal game, giving Newcastle United a boost.
• Arsenal currently holds a ten-point lead over Newcastle in the table.
• Newcastle United requires three wins from their remaining five games to guarantee a Champions League spot.

Arsenal face Newcastle United in a crucial top-three clash on Sunday, and the Magpies are optimistic about the return of their key midfielder Sean Longstaff. Longstaff has been sidelined due to a foot injury he sustained in a victory against Everton, causing him to miss Newcastle’s recent 3-1 win over Southampton.

The midfielder’s absence from the Southampton match marked the first time he had not featured in a Premier League game this season. However, scans have shown no lasting damage to his foot, and Newcastle United’s manager Eddie Howe is hopeful that Longstaff will be available for the upcoming game against Arsenal.

Howe commented on Longstaff’s condition, stating, “Sean picked up a knock on his foot. We sent him for an X-ray and there’s no break or fracture, so we just hope it’s bad bruising. He wasn’t able to perform for us today [Sunday], but he’ll hopefully be back very soon.”

Arsenal currently hold decent lead over Newcastle in the table, but the match is significant for both teams. The Gunners will need to prepare for the potential return of Longstaff, who could add an extra layer of challenge to the game.

In addition to Longstaff, Newcastle’s Allan Saint-Maximin may also be on track for a possible return against Arsenal. The Frenchman has been out since a 5-1 win over West Ham due to a hamstring issue. Howe mentioned that Saint-Maximin is showing improvements and working hard with the physiotherapists.

With Newcastle United close to securing European football next season, the match against Arsenal holds immense importance. The Magpies require three wins from their remaining five games to guarantee a spot in the Champions League.

Howe, however, remains focused on the present and is not looking too far ahead. He stated, “We still have to win the games we need and get the points we need, so my head is currently where we are presently and that won’t change.”