Speaking about his future, Isak is keen to continue playing at the highest level. "Playing football at this level has always been a dream and probably the main dream that I've had," he said. "Playing in the Premier League for a club like Newcastle with a fan base like they have here is extra special." Meanwhile, Eddie Howe has also made his feelings clear about not wanting Isak to leave. "Yeah absolutely, there's no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go," he said. "He's very much part of our long-term plans. Personally, I don't see that being an issue. "I think he's got unique skills and I think the challenge for us this season has been able to try and get him into the game as much as we can. Early season we weren't doing that as a team or functioning particularly well for him. We're seeing a return to his very best levels, highlighted by the goals he's scoring really."

Of all the problems that have encapsulated Arsenal's struggles this season, Martin Odegaard's form, or lack thereof, has felt the most significant.

For the few campaigns prior to this one, the Norwegian maestro was comfortably one of the Gunners' most essential starters, as evidenced by his second successive Player of the Year Award last season.

However, whether it be down to his ankle sprain, fatigue or a drop in confidence, the former Real Madrid wonderkid has simply not been up to scratch this season.