Mikel Arteta says that Newcastle United will be "fully prepared" for their clash at the Emirates Stadium - despite the absence of Eddie Howe on the training ground this week.
The Arsenal boss suffered a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Liverpool last weekend but has guided the Gunners to fifth spot in the Premier League after overcoming early season pressure.
Arteta's side are now back in the mix for a Champions League place in the top-flight and go into the encounter with United on the back of six straight home wins in all competitions.
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When asked about Howe, Arteta said: "I admire him and what he has done in the league.
"I know his coaching staff well and I'm sure they will be fully prepared.
"We have the technology to do as much as we can (when isolating) but I imagine he has found it difficult, and for that to happen when he just joined is very unlucky but I'm sure they'll find a way to deal with it."
Arsenal were wounded by the hammering at Anfield against Jurgen Klopp's side but are now aiming to take their anger out on Newcastle.
Arteta said: "We are really looking forward to the game, after a defeat, you want to put it right straight away.
"We are on a good run, we are at home and we have our people right behind us and we are going to perform well.
"Then we'll be close to winning the match."
Arteta was even asked about Newcastle's horrendous record at the Emirates Stadium with their last win coming in 2010.
In fact that victory was so long ago, Arteta's love affair with Arsenal hadn't even started as he was still pulling his boots on for Everton at that stage in his career.
He said: "Let's keep it going, but this is a new game and there have been some changes there.
"It has built momentum.
"We saw some different things in the last game they played (a 3-3 draw at home to Brentford); new manager and a new coaching staff, so we need to be prepared.
"We have to raise our level to compete with these teams and match how consistent they are every game, but also how consistent they are throughout the game.
"They dominate every area and that is why they are so successful."
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