Arsenal boss provides injury updates ahead of Newcastle clash

Arteta to be without key duo

Tierney and Smith Rowe set to miss out

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kieran Tierney and Emile Smith Rowe will miss Saturday's Premier League clash with Newcastle United.

Tierney has been struggling with a calf injury since the Gunners' defeat to Manchester United last month, while Smith Rowe has been out with a groin problem.

Arteta told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday: "Kieran is still not available. He's still feeling some discomfort in his calf. Emile is also out. He's had a setback in his recovery from his groin injury."

The Arsenal boss added that he is hopeful that both players will be back in contention for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool on Thursday.

"We're hoping to have them back for the Liverpool game," said Arteta.

Tierney and Smith Rowe's absence is a blow to Arsenal's hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.

The Gunners are currently fourth in the table, one point ahead of Manchester United and two points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

Arteta's side will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing 2-0 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Europa League on Thursday.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are in 14th place in the Premier League, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

The Magpies have won just one of their last five matches in all competitions.