Coming on the back of a series of disappointing results in the PL campaign, few would have expected the way Newcastle performed against Arsenal. While considerably the home advantage did support them, the way the Toon players performed was commendable as they proved the win against Chelsea, just days before, was not a fluke.
Former Newcastle star picks Ace Academy graduate as the best performer against Arsenal
One of the key factors Newcastle had been lacking in the last few PL games, has been their intensity playstyle as a cohesive unit; however, Howe's side demonstrated it brilliantly against Arsenal. Having got the early lead through a brilliant finish by star forward Isak, the Magpies' defense worked superbly to deny the Gunners an equalizer. Even though much of the media spotlight was awarded to Isak for his winning goal, there were many heroes in Newcastle's 1-0 win.
Be it the attacking front led by Isak or their midfield compartment and their backline adorned by the quality full-back duo of Livramento and Hall, all performed brilliantly against Arsenal. Understandably, while Club legend Alan Shearer was very pleased with Lewis Hall and Livramento, former Newcastle defender Stuart Pearce expressed his content with ace midfielder Sean Longstaff's performance.
Praising the 27-year-old's brilliant tireless work in the Magpies' midfield, in particular being pleased with his defensive heroics, Pearce chose him his MOTM, saying,
"“I thought he was magnificent; I really did. I think he worked tirelessly. Where he worked hard was late in the game when you have got more chances of conceding goals.""Stuart Pearce
As the former Toon star mentioned, Longstaff was amazing against Arsenal, making interceptions, completing key tackles, and restricting Arsenal in every way possible from finding the equalizer. In fact, while he certainly didn't get his name on the scoreline or make a goal contribution in the fixture, Longstaff was pivotal in Newcastle's win.
With this massive win, the ace academy graduate further extended his brilliant start record with Newcastle, who are now unbeaten in the last 7 games he has started. While some may argue that Longstaff shouldn't be preferred in the lineup, having the options of Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, and Tonali, the 27-year-old has proved his importance again and again. Newcastle fans would hope that the midfield star continues this way, playing a crucial role in their season ahead.