Arteta: ‘Newcastle totally deserved to win the match’
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta was very unhappy with his side’s performance after their 0-2 defeat to Newcastle, in which they gave away important points in the battle for a Champions League place.
Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest: Line-ups
Newcastle
Nottingham Forest
Newcastle’s Experience Will Shine
#1
With six wins coming from their final eight matches in 2021-22, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe would not have wanted the season to end as his side consistently impressed during the run-in. However, it led to the Magpies moving onto the next stage of their progression, putting plans in place to launch a bid for European football over the next nine-and-a-half months.
#2
Supporters would have liked to have seen an attacking player come through the door by this stage of the transfer window, but there can be no complaints with the acquisitions of Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope and Lille defender Sven Botman.
#3
Signing the latter felt like a needle mover, the Netherlands international rejecting AC Milan to become the next signing of this ongoing project, and a strong start to the season may lead to other high-profile names following the centre-back to the North-East.
#4
Steve Cooper and the club’s hierarchy thought differently, and as many as 11 first-team additions have been made ahead of their opening encounter. That is yet to translate into results with Forest winning just two of their seven pre-season fixtures, including failing to prevail in any of their closing three matches.
#5
However, a late equaliser to draw 1-1 at home to Valencia last Saturday has kept Forest trending in the right direction ahead of a game where they will relish the tag of underdogs. These two clubs have met on seven occasions since Forest last competed in the top flight back in 1999, six of those games coming in the Championship.
DPP Verdict
Given the standard of players that have been signed by Forest, it would be naive to rule out the visitors from causing a surprise in the North-East. However, despite Forest likely to have a spring in their step, Newcastle’s greater quality and experience should shine through come the final whistle.
