Positives & negatives from Arsenal's 1-0 win vs. Newcastle

Declan Rice separated Arsenal and Newcastle with a sweet strike from outside the box, but the result flattered the outplayed Gunners.

Arsenal needed three points to close out the home slate of a hugely frustrating Premier League season with some goodwill. Declan Rice ensured there'd be some of that at the Emirates Stadium after lighting up an otherwise pedestrian Arsenal display with a special goal on 55 minutes.

Rice's sweet strike sent Arsenal into next season's UEFA Champions League, but Mikel Arteta's squad won't repeat this year's run to the semi-final, or even beyond, without serious investment in attacking areas.

Kai Havertz returned up top, but neither he nor Leandro Trossard made anybody forget about Arsenal's perpetual need for a true striker. Whoever chooses the big-money import at that position, either Arteta or new Edu Andrea Berta, the talisman up top will need regular supply from a more creative and fluid midfield.

Forming one of those demands Arsenal sign another playmaker with Martin Odegaard's eye for a pass. The skipper turned on the style at times against the Magpies, but he also looked lost in isolation at others.

Odegaard and Rice showcased individual brilliance in select moments, but Newcastle's midfield was a proper functioning unit. A group combining muscle and artistry in lockstep.

The visitors never turned those things into goals thanks to the heroics of David Raya and Alexander Isak skipping battle against a potential transfer suitor thanks to a groin injury.

Positives & negatives from Arsenal's 1-0 win vs. Newcastle

Positive #1: Rice finishing strong

These are no longer the days when Bukayo Saka's status as Arsenal's best player can simply be taken for granted. Not when Rice is finishing strongly to cap a season for the ages.

Rice's banner campaign has been inspired by how he's continually evolved his game. He's transformed himself from throwback holding player and midfield terrier to free-scoring and freewheeling goal-getter.

Rice netted for the fourth time in the Premier League after sweeping in the winner in style. The strike earned Rice a place among some select company from Arsenal's recent history, according to OptaJoe's Harvey Downes.

This many goals from distance shows Rice's growing confidence. So does nine goals and 10 assists across all competitions. Sadly, those numbers are also a bittersweet reminder about Arsenal's lack of impetus in more attacking areas.

The absence of a talismanic striker has meant Rice is usually there to apply the finishing touch, but his most talented midfield partner is responsible for what happens before the decisive touch.

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