Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to Eberechi Eze’s ninth-minute goal.
Mikel Arteta’s side had slipped to second for the first time since October after Manchester City’s midweek win over Burnley took them top on goal difference. The Gunners responded with a hard-fought performance to reclaim first place.
Arsenal started brightly and went ahead from a clever short corner. Kai Havertz found Eze on the edge of the box, and the England international curled a superb finish into the top corner.
Newcastle pushed for a response before halftime. William Osula, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali all had chances, but the visitors could not find an equaliser.
Eddie Howe turned to his bench after the break, introducing Yoane Wissa and Harvey Barnes as Newcastle chased the game. Wissa spurned a clear opportunity late on, and the Magpies fell to a fourth straight league defeat.
The result puts Arsenal three points clear of Manchester City at the top, although the Gunners have played a game more than their title rivals.
