Arteta's Arsenal Crisis Deepens: 2 Stars Ruled Out - Who Will Step Up?

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing a series of injury headaches ahead of Saturday's highly-anticipated clash against Newcastle United at St. James' Park.

The North London outfit remain without the services of their inspirational captain, Martin Odegaard, who has been a driving force behind their recent success. However, the Norway international is still working his way back to full fitness, forcing Arteta to consider alternative options in his starting XI.

In another blow to the Gunners' aspirations of securing all three points on the road, versatile defender Ben White is also a major doubt for the trip to Newcastle. White's ability to play in a variety of roles has made him an indispensable member of Arteta's squad, and the manager will be keeping his fingers crossed that the 25-year-old can shake off his fitness concerns in time.

With Odegaard out and White's participation uncertain, the door has opened for other members of the Arsenal squad to step up and stake their claim for a regular starting spot. Arteta will be looking for a cohesive and settled team performance as the Gunners aim to bounce back from their recent setbacks.

Although the Magpies have experienced an inconsistent start to the new season, they have shown flashes of brilliance and will undoubtedly pose a stiff test for Arteta's charges. Newcastle's impressive home crowd will also provide an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors, and it remains to be seen how the Gunners' players will respond to the pressure.

As the team news and injury updates continue to roll in, one thing is certain - Arteta must be at his tactical best if Arsenal are to emerge from the North East with a positive result. With the Premier League table beginning to take shape, a win on Saturday could prove a decisive turning point in the Gunners' season.