As is the custom with pre-season football, the on-pitch product provides the sub plot to Newcastle and Arsenal’s fixture this afternoon. Both sides are playing their second games of their tours of Asia in Singapore’s National Stadium, but both sides have been busiest off the pitch with contrasting fortunes.

Howe has picked a strong team to face the Gunners with team captain Bruno Guimaraes alongside Sandro Tonali and Joe Willock in midfield. There’s a first start for new signing Anthony Elanga, whilst Alex Murphy gets an opportunity to impress from the off at left-back.

Eddie Howe has claimed Arsenal will have the advantage in their pre-season game against Newcastle United on Sunday, with his side looking fatigued.Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty ImagesAfter

Cristhian Mosquera trains with his new club Arsenal ahead of their preseason friendly against Newcastle.