How Mikel Arteta could set up Arsenal for their Carabao Cup match against Newcastle United, considering the current injury concerns – as depicted in the image.

Arsenal are preparing to face Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday (7 January).

Mikel Arteta’s biggest challenge is that several key first-team players are sidelined due to injuries.

Ethan Nwaneri has joined the injury list following an issue against Brighton, and Kai Havertz remains uncertain after missing the previous match.

Arteta will need to make smart rotations to manage his squad, knowing they also have an FA Cup match against Manchester United at the weekend.

It’s unlikely he will rest his forwards, with Gabriel Jesus expected to retain his spot as the main striker. Martin Odegaard should return to the starting XI after being dropped against Brighton.

Myles Lewis-Skelly is also expected to start, along with Jakub Kiwior. Thomas Partey is likely to return to the midfield for this match.

Arsenal’s probable starting XI for the Newcastle United game: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Partey, Rice, Odegaard, Trossard, Martinelli, Jesus.