Newcastle United 1-2 Arsenal: 5 Hits and Flops

Newcastle United v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Arsenal players celebrate Mesut's strike to double their lead

#2 Hit: Federico Fernandez

Newcastle United v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Newcastle's standout performer on a frustrating afternoon

Newcastle's best player on a tricky afternoon, Fernandez was an under-the-radar £6m acquisition from relegated Swansea and excelled against tough opposition here.

Two tackles, interceptions, blocked shots, three clearances and an inviting assist for Clark's header, Fernandez kept Aubameyang at bay and was unfazed by Lacazette's movement too.

His sliding recovery challenges were perfectly timed when he found himself outnumbered in battles for possession and you could empathise with the amount of defending needed to shut Arsenal attacks out.

It'll be interesting to see how he combines with Jamaal Lascelles (ankle) once the club captain returns to full fitness again.

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