Premier League - Newcastle v Arsenal preview Eurosport - Wed, 05 Dec 09:49:00 2007
ArseneWenger is baffled by the pressure placed on Newcastle manager SamAllardyce, but has no intention of making his life easier when Arsenal visit St James's Park. More Stories
Allardyce's job appears perilously insecure after fans turnedagainst him following a poor run of just one point in five PremierLeague games.
Senior players were forced to deny rumours ofdressing room unrest on Tuesday, and Wenger believes Allardyce - whohas been in charge for only 14 league matches - is being subjected tounrealistic expectations.
"It is a bit harsh, but firstly Idon't know if it is true and secondly I don't know what is really goingon inside the club," Wenger said.
"But if the speculations you talk about are true then as he has just been appointed it is surprising."
Wenger is unlikely to risk Cesc Fabregas this evening, while the absence of the injured Alexander Hleb and Mathieu Flamini means the midfield will take on an experienced look. Lassana Diarraand Denilson can both expect to start, while Wenger may be forced toswitch to two up front, with Eduardo da Silva joining Emmanuel Adebayor.
Allardyce has equally vexing injury problems, despite the likely return of Steven Taylor to the centre of defence.
He is without Claudio Cacapa, Abdoulaye Faye and Stephen Carr, while Michael Owen continues to miss out and James Milner is a doubt. Follow all the action LIVE from 7.45pm UK time on eurosport.yahoo.com!
Alex Chick / Eurosport
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Post time 4-12-2007 07:47 PM
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