Three things learned about Newcastle v Arsenal: Maestro proves himself against stars
Benitez not afraid to drop the axe
After the club’s dreadful run of form it should have come as no surprise to see manager Benitez make as many as five changes for the clash.
However the axing of star man Matt Ritchie would not have been expected by the Toon Army or Arsenal, as he was replaced by Jacob Murphy in the starting XI.
Perhaps it was the Newcastle boss trying to disrupt the Gunners’ game plan, but after recent displays the Scottish winger was perhaps was in need of a break.
It shows that if you are not performing in this Newcastle side, then you will find your place under threat, whether a fringe figure or a regular in the first team.
Click below to see the second thing we learned in Newcastle United’s clash v Arsenal