Arsenal exhibit crucial change in Newcastle win that could prove difference in title race

For so long, the trip to Manchester City was weighing on Arsenal ’s mind. The fear of the worst-case scenario was torturing their psyche : that their nine-point advantage would be wiped out in a matter of 11 days. That’s exactly what transpired - and suddenly, Arsenal are playing with a semblance of freedom again.

Arsenal came into their clash with Newcastle - one of five potentially title-deciding outings remaining in their Premier League season - knocked off the top of the table after a 200-day stint. Mikel Arteta denied there was any psychological impact to being second, but it didn’t seem that way. Both on the pitch and in the stands, anxiety at the first whistle had eased, perhaps taking a liking to the growing perception that they are now the underdogs in this title race .

The worst had happened - now it was their job to stage a fightback. Gabriel and David Raya celebrate Arsenal’s win over Newcastle (Reuters) By the final whistle, that anxiety had admittedly returned in droves - but crucially, for the first time in over a month, Arsenal had won on English soil. They were back on top and their performance, and response, was worthy of that outcome.

From the outset, Arsenal played with vigour and intent against a side who themselves are in the throws of a rough period. Eddie Howe may have seen an Arsenal side without a domestic win in four as an opportunity to win back positive sentiment, yet it quickly became apparent of their gulf in quality regardless of blips. In the London sunshine without a cloud in the sky, the Gunners were feeling themselves.