The Gunners host Leeds at the Emirates before a crucial run leading up to a potential title-decider against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium
The Reds head to champions Man City needing victory just to stay in touch for Champions League places
Victory this weekend would see the Magpies surpass last season's points total of 49 with 11 games to go - they currently sit on 47 - and that would represent a significant achievement, although Howe and his staff are judging progress by a range of indicators rather than that alone.