In the space of just two hours, it seemingly became clear how perfect Alexander Isak would be for Arsenal. Both Newcastle and the Gunners were in action at home on Saturday afternoon where three points was expected of both teams as they faced Leicester City and Everton, respectively.
Gabriel Magalhaes was back in the starting XI with Myles Lewis-Skelly rewarded for his display in the Champions League. It was arguably the best possible team to many supporters and a strong victory would have given Arsenal the perfect platform heading into a number of more challenging games in quick succession.
However, Arsenal could not find a way through and only tested Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford five times with Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegarad going closest. Two points dropped meant Arsenal did not make up ground on Liverpool with the league leaders also failing to win as they drew 2-2 against Fulham.
At the same time as both of those games, Newcastle put Leicester to the sword with Jacob Murphy (x2), Bruno Guimaraes and Isak all on target. The Sweden international's goal was his third in as many games and the assist for Murphy's second made it five goal contributions in his last 259 minutes of Premier League football.
While he has been firing on all cylinders, Arsenal have struggled to create goal-scoring chances from open play with their last three league goals all coming from set-pieces. With all due respect, not beating teams like Everton at home could ultimately prove costly in the title race and that is why an elite-level striker is required.
Bukayo Saka was excellent on the right but he can only do so much and having someone like Isak on the end of his crosses and passes would be very welcome. Isak not only provides a goal threat however, as his creativity is also regularly on show and it would be very welcome at Emirates Stadium.
With Martin Odegaard struggling to make an impact, Arteta made a shock change in the 62nd minute which saw Ethan Nwaneri come on in his place. Declan Rice was also taken off because of an injury with Jorginho replacing him in midfield.
The teenager has scored off the bench plenty of times but it is hardly fair on him to expect an impact when more senior players such as Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard were offering so little. Therefore, in moments when Odegaard is not getting joy, Isak can take on some of that creative burden.
Simply put, Isak's goal contributions against Leicester are the biggest hint yet he could lead Arsenal to a Premier League title.