A good few days for Newcastle United got even better on Saturday.
Eddie Howe’s side followed up their impressive 2-0 win over Chelsea with another statement result, this time beating Arsenal 1-0 at St James’ Park in the Premier League.
Indeed, Alexander Isak’s first-half header proved enough for Newcastle, who largely held the Gunners at bay throughout proceedings.
It was a brilliant performance from Newcastle, even despite the fact Arsenal had a lot of the ball towards the closing stages. Nick Pope was hardly tested, save for good chances for both Declan Rice and Mikel Merino.
After such a big result, the praise has been pouring in for various Newcastle players. Alan Shearer hailed Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall as “absolutely outstanding”, while Stuart Pearce described Sean Longstaff’s performance as “magnificent”.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, namechecked another Toon star in his post-match comments.
Mikel Arteta namechecks “especially” physical Newcastle player as Arsenal lose
According to Arsenal’s official website, Arteta was actually asked about the performance of Isak, who has of course been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in the past.
However, rather than focusing on the striker, the Arsenal chief pointed out a certain Joelinton as an “especially” physical threat.
“They are all big and very physical, Joelinton especially he was the one he [Thomas Partey] had to deal with him, especially playing directly on his side,” he said.
“I love my players and I wouldn’t change them for anyone else.”
Joelinton’s change in position looks here to stay
Having also impressed on the left wing against Chelsea in the cup, it’s going to be hard to drop Joelinton back into midfield anytime soon.
We of course know the Brazilian can do a job there but why change a winning formula for the sake of it?
Anthony Gordon may have to continue over on the right but looks comfortable there, having provided a brilliant assist for Isak. Harvey Barnes may be missing out but, frankly, has looked better off the bench at times anyway.
Joelinton’s change in position is paying off for Newcastle. And then some.
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