'Flimsy' - Chris Sutton releases Arsenal vs Newcastle preview and prediction

Newcastle United face a tough challenge on Saturday as they travel to Arsenal for the 5:30pm kick-off live on Sky Sports.

The Magpies' recent form is a huge cause for concern, and going up against Mikel Arteta's side when they have such a big point to prove after being knocked off the top of the table is a worry.

Depending on your outlook, this is either the type of game we really need right now or the absolute worst timing.

Newcastle tend to rise to the occasion when there's a big game, so this could be the spark we need. But our confidence is so low right now that it could be a whitewash.

Chris Sutton isn't expecting much from Newcastle

It seems the pundits have made up their mind, as Chris Sutton's score prediction for the BBC matches that of Paul Merson's. Sutton still feels Arsenal have plenty of fight left in them in the title race and they'll prove that on Saturday.

"I did not think Arsenal's defeat at City last week spelled the end of their title hopes, and watching City struggle to put Burnley away on Wednesday must have been a boost for their players.

"I know the result still knocked the Gunners off the top of the table but that was not the kind of performance that suggested Pep Guardiola's side are just going to march to the title from here.

"However you want to view Arsenal's recent form, they know they are still in the race - especially because goal difference could decide the title.

"I've been in this situation myself in a title race and, while I am sure both managers will say that it is just about making sure they win their own games, you cannot ignore the fact that the season starts now, and goal difference could be important.

"That's why, if I was an Arsenal player sat at home watching City against Burnley, I would have been thinking that 1-0 is OK for us.

"They are level now, on points and goal difference, and the Gunners still have Burnley to play, but at home.

"So, it is there for them, but they have to get past this game first.

"Newcastle have given Arsenal a good game when they've met in recent seasons and there has been a bit of needle between the two sides.

"Right now, though, Eddie Howe's side have a few injury problems on top of their dismal form.

"They have dropped off their usual level, and they look a bit flimsy to me. It feels like a good time to play them, and I don't think this will be as close.

"Sutton's prediction: 2-0"

Have we got any fight left?

Both Sutton and Merson are expecting a 2-0 defeat for Eddie Howe's men, then. So does that give us more impetus to go out there and prove them wrong, or an excuse to accept our fate?

Honestly, the way our lads have been playing lately, we're not even sure they've got the fight in them.

Fingers crossed they prove us all wrong on Saturday and give Arsenal the type of game we're used to.