Mark Lawrenson states his prediction for Arsenal v Newcastle

Mark Lawrenson is backing Arsenal to keep their Premier League title bid on track by beating Newcastle United 3-0 at Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Gunners returned to winning ways by beating Bournemouth 2-0 on Monday thanks to Mesut Ozil’s fine display in north London.

Arsene Wenger’s men head into Saturday’s clash with the Magpies top of the Premier League table and ahead of second-placed Leicester City on goal difference.

And former Liverpool man Lawrenson is fully expecting to see the Gunners coast to victory against Steve McClaren’s men at The Emirates as Arsenal look to kick off 2016 with a win.

Lawrenson told BBC Sport: “Arsenal resumed normal service after their 4-0 defeat away to Southampton on Boxing Day with a comfortable 2-0 home win over Bournemouth two days later.

“It was a result that was never seriously in doubt once Gabriel headed in the first goal.

“At home – where they have not lost in the league since the opening day of the season – the Gunners are formidable. They just create so many chances and that will prove enough against a Newcastle side that are not that good defensively.

“Newcastle circle the wagons but the opposition always find a way through.”

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Arsenal, who have won the FA Cup for the last two seasons running, have been tipped by many to be the joint-favourites to win the Premier League title this season along with Manchester City.

The Gunners have not lifted the top-flight trophy since their unbeaten triumph back in 2003-04.