Arsenal vs. Newcastle: Key Takeaways from Arsene Wenger's Pregame Presser

As Arsenal battle for fourth place and a spot in the Champions League for next year, Arsene Wenger held his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Monday's vital home match against Newcastle.

Speaking to the press on Friday morning, Wenger talked about the current status of several injured players and also the future of Bacary Sagna. 

Wenger spoke of the pulsating nature of the Premier League and the title run-in.

The club's official Twitter account quoted the Frenchman saying:

The Frenchman revealed he had no new injury concerns for the game at the Emirates on Monday night, after the victory against Hull.

He also stated that Thomas Vermaelen could be ready for action against Newcastle:

Wenger did have some negative news on the fitness of Abou Diaby, who has picked up a minor injury. John Cross of the Mirror tweeted:

Scott Heppell

And it appears that experienced full-back Bacary Sagna might be on his way from the north London club, as Wenger revealed that talks with the player had garnered no agreements between the parties.

Kevin Palmer of the Sunday World tweeted:

Michael Regan/Getty Images

Wenger was asked about the recent sacking of David Moyes at Manchester United and expressed his sympathy toward the Scotsman.

The Mail Online quoted the Arsenal manager saying:

Wenger also went on to say that Jack Wilshere is recovering well from his injury and was full of praise for midfielder Mikel Arteta, complimenting his quality, focus and commitment, per the club's official Twitter.

With Arsenal just a point above Everton, there can be no place for Wenger's side to have any more slip-ups in the run-in. They have haemorrhaged points in the final weeks of the season, conceding their place higher up the table.

The news of Wilshere's continued good progress will please Arsenal and England fans alike, before this summer's World Cup. He is vital to both teams' success, and both Wenger and Roy Hodgson will want him available as soon as possible.

Newcastle's form over the second half of the season has been poor, and Wenger will see the match as an opportunity to put some ground between his side and Everton, should the Merseysiders slip up away to Southampton on Saturday.