Mikel Arteta confirms big blow ahead of Newcastle game

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Emile Smith Rowe will be sidelined for the Newcastle United game on Saturday.

The Gunners graduate suffered a knee injury during the 5-0 win over Sheffield United and he subsequently missed the West Ham game.

In a fresh update today, Arteta acknowledged that Smith Rowe's absence is a 'big blow' for the club and confirmed he will be out for weeks.

Smith Rowe started in the number 10 position against the Blades last weekend. Fabio Vieira took his place in the line-up vs West Ham.

Martin Odegaard is likely to retain the spot for the Magpies clash. The Norwegian has been well rested for the upcoming Tyneside trip.

Odegaard was an unused substitute versus the Blades. He played 10 minutes against the Hammers and scored a consolation goal right at the end.

The Gunners bowed out of the Carabao Cup in midweek after a poor showing at the London Stadium where they eventually lost 3-1.