**NEWCASTLE BLOW** Bukayo Saka has rallied his Arsenal teammates following the club’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, which has hurt their Premier League title hopes. Arsenal now trails league leaders Liverpool by seven points and hasn’t won in their last three matches, including a loss to Bournemouth and a draw with Liverpool. Alexander Isak’s header, set up by Anthony Gordon, secured the win for Newcastle, who had been winless for five games. Declan Rice had the best chances for Arsenal, but the team struggled offensively, managing only one shot on target. This game highlighted the absence of their captain due to injury. Saka, stepping up as a leader in Martin Ødegaard’s absence, called for unity on Instagram, stating, “We remain united!” Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is focused on development rather than the league standings as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League match against Inter Milan.
Arteta emphasized the importance of consistency when asked about Arsenal’s decline in the title race, saying, “It’s not just about winning the title; it’s about showing our best selves each week.” He acknowledged, “Today, we weren’t at our best.” He dismissed suggestions that pressure over the title race was affecting the players, noting, “I didn’t feel that. We simply lacked the threat and intensity to challenge them when we went behind.” Newcastle was allowed too much control, leading to several free kicks that disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm. On BBC’s Final Score, former Arsenal captain Martin Keown expressed concern over the team’s recent form, stating, “There’s a long way to go, but Arsenal has much to do to keep up with Liverpool. They were not present in today’s match. The dressing room will be tough; it’s now about regrouping and showing they can perform at a high level.”
