Arsenal 3-0 Newcastle United

Arsenal continue their run of form securing a 3-0 win against a Steve Bruce’s Newcastle, keeping the same momentum since 3-1 victory against Chelsea on Boxing day. Arsenal have now kept 5 consecutive clean sheets, the most they have since the 2008/2009 season.

Emile Smith Rowe continues to show his impact in the side assisting Bukayo Saka for the second goal. Since being integrated into the Premier League side Arsenal have scored 11 goals in 5 games compared to the 12 goals in 14 games without him. The introduction of a proper attacking midfielder has been the difference with Smith Rowe being able to break down teams from the middle and giving Arsenal fluidity when attacking, no longer having to rely on spamming crosses for a chance on goal.

Thomas Partey has his first start since having to come off before half time against Tottenham in early December with an injury and made his presence known setting up Aubameyang with a clinical through ball to score the first goal off the counter attack. Partey had 1 assist, 6 long balls, 2 key passes, 94% pass succesion rate, and 3 interceptions in his 67 minutes of play. His return to the side from injury will feel like a new signing and could influence Arsenal’s late push for the Champions League places after a disappointing first half of the season.

Pierre Emerick Aubameyang was awarded the man of the match award scoring a brace to end his goal drought, scoring his first Premier League goal since the 1-1 draw against Southampton on December 16th. A much needed goal to boost his confidence, this could unlock the Aubameyang we all know who’s scored 44 goals in the last two premier league seasons. With 5 clean sheets in a row and their main talismans ending his goal drought, Mikel Arteta is looking to turn Arsenal season around finally entered the top half of the table (10th place). With 19 games left to go and 7 points separating 4th from 10th, Arsenal are definitely still in the race for the Europa League spots and can’t be counted out just yet for the Champions League spots.