‘That’s just the start of what’s to come’

It has been a difficult week to be an Arsenal fan, but Mesut Ozil’s superb volley ensured we ended it with all three points against Newcastle United.

The victory saw us return to winning ways after back-to-back draw at Southampton and West Ham United, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles believes the result will give us confidence over this busy run of fixtures.

“That’s just the start of what’s to come for us,” the 20-year-old said. “We need to carry on with the good performances, stay strong at the back and not concede.

“We made it a bit harder for ourselves in the last 20 minutes because we should’ve tried to keep the ball more, but Mesut’s goal was fantastic. He’s deserved it because he’s been playing so well recently. To top it off with a goal like that is really good for him.”

It was Maitland-Niles’ second Premier League start after Wednesday’s draw at West Ham United, and the midfielder was pleased with his performance - even if it did come at left back.

“The fans were brilliant today because they made a lot of noise,” he said. “It was just to be at home, playing for Arsenal doing what I do best. I feel comfortable wherever I play on the pitch and of course the fans made it easier for me as well, so I’m thankful for that.”