Alexander Isak was back in Newcastle’s starting eleven after almost four weeks of injury absence.
But the Premier League comeback was not a fun story for Isak – who was allowed to touch the ball only after 20 minutes on the pitch.
Arsenal were responsible for a game-like overrun in the first half at the Emirates Stadium.
In the 18th minute, the red and white home team scored 1–0.
After a tangled situation in front of Newcastle goalkeeper Lorius Karius, the ball went into the goal. The origin of the goal arose after a corner where a form of pinball was played out between Karius and centre-back Sven Botman – where the latter steered the ball over the line.
– They have no game at all, said Fredrik Ljungberg in Viasat’s broadcast.
Ljungberg: “Arsenal will be the disappointed team”
Six minutes later it rattled again. Then it was Kai Havertz who finished off a fine Arsenal attack.
– It is almost shocking. It must not look this way, thundered Ljungberg.
After the first half, Arsenal had lined up eleven scoring chances. Newcastle nil.
– Arsenal will be the disappointed team – because they only lead 2-0. They would have killed this match. It should be 3–0 or 4–0 here, Ljungberg stated after the first half.
The second half was controlled by Arsenal.
After about an hour, however, Alexander Isak took the initiative and pushed towards the goal. His finish, on the other hand, went well over the target.
Isak replaced – then Arsenal doubled the lead in five minutes
It was the last thing Isak did on the pitch before being replaced by coach Eddie Howe.
Just a minute later, in the 65th minute, Arsenal extended their lead through Bukayo Saka – well helped by Newcastle sloppy in the build-up phase.
– Seriously speaking, you must not miss that pass, said Ljungberg.
It wasn’t over there.
Five minutes later, Jakob Kiwior steered the ball into the goal after a corner. The Arsenal defender’s first goal of the season.
However, the visiting Newcastle supporters would have reason to celebrate – as former Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock scored a consolation for the visitors with five minutes remaining.
Arsenal’s 4–1 victory means they remain in the title race. After 26 rounds played, there are two points up on league leaders Liverpool.
Isak’s Newcastle is in eighth place in the Premier League.