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29 March 2024

Arsenal have only one fear now - Newcastle

Newcastle United's Hatem Ben Arfa (C) runs with the ball while challenged by Bolton Wanderers players during their English Premier League soccer match in Newcastle, north east England April 9, 2012. (REUTERS)

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By Staff

Arsenal are sighting second and a shattered Manchester City.

It would do Arsene Wenger some good to keep one eye on the rear view mirros.

Alan Pardew and Newcastle United are sighting third and not so much the usual flattering-to-deceive show from Tottenham Hotspur, but on taking down the flying-high Gunners themselves.

Newcastle are on 59 points with Arsenal on 61 with a game in hand.

Should Arsenal draw or lose that, against Wolves, there is a certain air of confidence and surety about the Magpies that makes them overtaking the Gunners almost a certainty.

Pardew has now set his sights on the £35million Champions League prize.

“We’re going for it,” he said after Newcastle saw off Bolton at St James’ Park.

Pardew said: “That’s what we are going to do with the five games we’ve got left. That’s what our fans want to see us try to do. I have never ruled out the Champions League.” 

Pardew will be guaranteed a Europa League spot if Liverpool beat Everton in next Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final.

He added: “If the semi-final results go our way we could be in Europe by next weekend.

“We have got to keep our eye on the ball and we are not giving up on anything.”

Much will depend on French wizard Hatem Ben Arfa. A player in the classic Arsenal mould – great touch, sublime skill, fine finishing.

Ben Arfa scored a likely candidate for goal of the season (matching Peter Crouch’s amazing volley) when he collected a pass from Yohan Cabaye in Newcastle’s half, almost 60 yards from goal. He turned and then skipped and danced past four Bolton challenges before scoring.

Arsenal will not want Newcastle turning and skipping past them.