Arsenal character not in doubt: Now let's get over the line vs Newcastle 

Here's Ian Mills with Three Things We Learned after Arsenal's draw at Liverpool as Newcastle loom 

A second half fightback ensures a share of the spoils away to the Champions as Newcastle loom at the Emirates looms this weekend

Here are three things that stood out for Ian Mills 

1 - Gabi Martinelli proves himself an able striker deputy

– There are rumours circulating around our summer transfer plans that we may have to sell a ‘big name’ to allow for the expenditure that needs to be made on the re-enforcements that are urgently required to augment this squad, and Gabi Martinelli’s name continues to pop up. He has undoubted talent however like all wide men he lacks consistency.

However, the winner at the Bernabeu coupled with not only his headed goal here but also his overall hardworking display gave a timely reminder of his qualities.

He now has 10 goals in all competitions from an injury hit campaign. Only Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka have more. He also offers a threat as a centre forward and with Mikel Merino suspended and Leandro Trossard likely to be absent with a hamstring problem, the game against Newcastle may well offer him the chance to lead the line.

2 - A team of two halves

– While we were second best to Liverpool in the first half we had our chances, Saka should have done much better from Martin Odegaard’s early free kick and then Trossard and Thomas Partey got in each other’s way when the goalmouth yawned in front of the Kop.

We have far witnessed too many Arsenal sides crumble having gone two goals down at Anfield so the second half fightback was as welcome as it was unexpected. In fact, we were the better side after the break and might have won it through Odegaard’s late shot.

Considering we started this game minus Gabriel, Declan Rice and Kai Havertz from the spine of our side, this result shows the character of the side is not in question despite one of the most trying weeks of the season.

We will need more of that character in the ‘winner takes all’ clash with Newcastle.

3 - Raya’s reactions are again top class

– our Spanish No1 made another series of impressive stops starting with a fine save from Luis Diaz. Then after two Liverpool goals in ninety seconds, he made a great stop from Curtis Jones’ effort tipping it around the post. He then saved well from van Dijk’s injury time header.

There has been a few shaky moments with his footwork this season just like the ball to Merino which ultimately led to his second booking and dismissal from the field of play.

However, his shot stopping and reflexes have been on point all season as he has enjoyed a fine personal campaign.

A nice touch there by the keepers union. David Raya, Neto and Tommy Setford headed across the pitch to congratulate Liverpool’s Allison on winning the Premier League. Classy from the Arsenal trio pic.twitter.com/G4rueKMKID

— Layth (@laythy29) May 11, 2025