Arsenal’s predicted lineup for Sunday’s match v Newcastle: Podolski & Walcott to both start

DC) Per Mertesacker

The giant German will be up against Loic Remy, who is quick and agile, meaning Mertesacker’s positioning will have to be superb. He’s not played with Vermaelen much this term either, but both are established international footballers who should be able to step up at this crucial period of the season.