Mikel Arteta has come through Arsenal’s nightmare fixture gauntlet and emerged ready to take control of the title race.

The Gunners’ late win at Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon represented a massive step forward for the club in their hopes to win the Premier League this season. While Mikel Merino’s late equaliser would have been a boost, Gabriel’s 96th-minute winner changed everything.

When the fixture computer presented Arsenal with their opening six matches, there was little doubt that, while not ideal, coming through it still within touching distance of Liverpool would represent an opportunity grabbed.

With all six games played, the gap to the Reds is just two points following Arne Slot’s side’s first defeat of the campaign, courtesy of former Gunner turned Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah. A red and white weekend, most certainly.

While the mood, particularly after the draw with Manchester City, had been somewhat low, the win on Tyneside transformed the feeling. In reflection, the collection of opening clashes have plenty of signs to give confidence about this year’s chances.

Last season, Arsenal dropped a total of 21 points from winning positions, so far they are yet to let a lead slip. While Sunday’s comeback against...