Arsenal News: Season Begins Against Newcastle With Absentees

Arsenal will put all of the transfer rumours to bed soon, and actually have action instead of chatter, when the Gunners face Newcastle United at St. James' Park on Saturday.

Arsene Wenger was recently bombarded with questions about who is staying and who is going, but the Arsenal boss has refused to announce any specifics about the transfer market. The Gunners have a chance to compete for the Premier League title if they are able to land elite replacements for their two departing star midfielders, as well as add the elusive centre back that has been the topic of so much discussion this summer.

Arsenal will not have Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri on Saturday, and will also be without a number of other key players. Robin van Persie (knee) and Kieran Gibbs (thigh) are questionable for the match, pending exams. Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby will both be sidelined with ankle injuries.

However, Theo Walcott and Thomas Vermaelen are expected be available.

Newcastle is looking to build off their 12th place showing last season. A realistic projection for the club would be 10th place finish.

Two very notable players for the Magpies won't be in uniform. Contentious midfielder Joey Barton is about to move on to another club. Full back Jose Enrique is on his way to Liverpool as his transfer appears to be in place from Newcastle.

However, Newcastle manager Alan Pardew added forward Gabriel Obertan from Manchester United, and Yohan Cabaye from Lille. Both players can expect to see signifiant minutes this season.

Winger Hatem Ben Arfa is the only player that will be missing due to injury for Newcastle.