As Arsenal prepare for their Premier League fixture against Newcastle United at St James Park on 4 November, they are set to face a squad hampered by injuries.

Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy are significant absences, putting Newcastle at a potential disadvantage.

Alexander Isak, Newcastle United‘s striker, is expected to miss the team’s next four matches due to a groin injury he sustained in the Champions League.

Isak limped off after just 15 minutes of play, compounding what was a difficult night for Newcastle, who also saw Jacob Murphy taken off the pitch with a dislocated shoulder. He played no part in their 2-2 draw with Wolves on Satuday.

Manager Eddie Howe expressed his disappointment, stating, “That was a blow for us, and Jacob coming off as well which looks like a serious injury. We have a small squad as it is but with so many games to come that’s the big disappointment of the night.”

This situation could prove pivotal when Newcastle face Arsenal, who currently sit in second place in the Premier League.

The injuries mean that Isak could potentially miss matches against Man United, Arsenal, and the return fixture against Borussia Dortmund. “Isak looks a reoccurrence of the groin injury and Jacob Murphy it looks more serious, a dislocation of his shoulder which isn’t a good thing,” Howe added.

Isak’s absence is particularly detrimental for Newcastle, given his track record.

Since joining from Real Sociedad for £60m last year, he has netted 17 times in 38 appearances.

His performance last season saw him score 10 goals in 27 appearances, playing an instrumental role in Newcastle’s qualification for the Champions League.

Murphy’s absence is also problematic, considering the player looked in significant pain as he was taken off the pitch.

Despite the problem not being considered severe, Isak’s injury comes at a critical time for Newcastle, who are preparing for a series of important fixtures.

With Arsenal in fine form and currently boasting a youthful and dynamic squad under Mikel Arteta, the Magpies could find it challenging to secure points in the upcoming match.

To compound matters for Newcastle, this isn’t the first time Isak has suffered an injury since his arrival.

The 24-year-old also had a serious thigh injury that kept him sidelined for almost four months last season. However, he bounced back well, scoring 10 goals in the remaining matches and helping Newcastle to qualify for the Champions League.

In contrast, Arsenal come into this match riding a wave of positive results, having recently beaten Sheffield United with a comprehensive 5-0 win, highlighting their Premier League title ambitions.

As both teams prepare for the upcoming fixture, the focus will be on how Newcastle navigates its injury crisis, while Arsenal looks to capitalise and continue their promising form in the league.

Before that game for Arsenal, though, they play West Ham in midweek in the Carabao Cup while Newcastle travel to Old Trafford.