Arsenal begin life without Vieira
Cesc Fabregas and Gilberto Silva teamed up in central midfield against Newcastle at Highbury as Arsenal attempted to prove they could cope without former captain Patrick Vieira.
Jose Antonio Reyes was suspended following his dismissal in the FA Cup final, leaving Freddie Ljungberg and Robert Pires to continue on the flanks, while Sol Campbell was also missing with a calf injury.
Newcastle were without strikers Michael Chopra and Shola Ameobi due to injury and suspension respectively, but Alan Shearer had at least shaken off a calf injury in time to play.
New signings Scott Parker and Emre were both selected in midfield, with Kieron Dyer expected to push forward in support of Shearer.
Arsenal v Newcastle teams
Arsenal: Lehmann, Lauren, Toure, Senderos, Cole, Ljungberg, Silva, Fabregas, Pires, Bergkamp, Henry.
Subs: Van Persie, Hleb, Flamini, Cygan, Almunia.
Newcastle: Given, Carr, Boumsong, Taylor, Babayaro, Dyer, Jenas, Parker, Emre, Bowyer, Shearer.
Subs: Elliott, Harper, N’Zogbia, Faye, Milner.
Referee: S Bennett (Kent)
