8 Key Decisions Steve McClaren Must Make Ahead Of Newcastle Vs Arsenal

3. Should Florian Thauvin Be Elevated Into Newcastle's League Line-Up?

Florian Thauvin's exceptional full debut against Northampton Town has effectively forced Steve McClaren's hand - it appears almost impossible for the Newcastle head coach to justify not starting the French winger. Three assists and a goal in a single game is an outstanding contribution, regardless of the quality of the opposition. But who does Thauvin replace in the starting line-up? Gabriel Obertan has performed a decent job defensively for Newcastle, and he could be utilised again to ensure that Massadio Haidara has cover up against Alexis Sanchez. Moussa Sissoko may or may not be fit, but can McClaren justify dropping Ayoze Perez? The Spaniard has performed tirelessly in the last two games. Again could the Newcastle head coach be tempted to deploy Georginio Wijnaldum deeper and slot Thauvin in further forward? Whatever he decides to do, it seems likely that Thauvin will start - and then it's a case of which other attacking-midfielders play alongside him.