Paul Merson says Arsenal star ‘paid back’ his entire transfer fee after what he did vs Newcastle

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Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a crucial 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

It was a game they simply had to win after briefly dropping down to second in the table, behind Manchester City. The pressure was firmly on Mikel Arteta’s side, and they delivered.

Once again, it took a moment of individual brilliance to separate the two teams. Eberechi Eze produced that with a stunning strike from outside the box to seal all three points.

Paul Merson was absolutely blown away by what he saw.

Paul Merson says Eberechi Eze repaid the £68m Arsenal paid for him with one performance vs Newcastle

Eze has always been known for his flair and ability to produce something special out of nothing.

That is why he was of interest to multiple clubs in the summer, and Arsenal ended up hijacking Tottenham’s move by striking a £68 million deal with Crystal Palace.

Against Newcastle on Saturday, Eze showed exactly why he is worth the big bucks by stepping up and delivering a goal of the highest quality.

That strike won Arsenal the game, and Merson believes that one moment alone justified Arsenal’s decision to sign him.

He said on Sky Sports: “Well, that’s what they bought him for. They bought Eze for that magic. He’s got the magic.

“He’s very exciting, he plays with a lot of freedom. Not many people score that. He’s the X-factor. You need to get the X-factors on the pitch, and they’re the ones who make the difference.

“He’s paid back everything in one game.”

READ MORE: Arsenal set new Premier League record vs Newcastle that no other club has ever done before

Eberechi Eze opens up on his injury during Arsenal vs Newcastle

Despite his match-winning performance, there was a moment of concern when Eze asked to be substituted late in the game.

Arsenal have already been dealing with multiple injuries, and losing another key player would have been a huge blow.

Kai Havertz also went off with what appeared to be a groin issue, adding to the worry for Arteta.

Thankfully, Eze has reassured fans that his situation is not serious.

He said, as per the Evening Standard: “I’m alright. I’m all good, it was just a precaution. I didn’t want to do anything more severe. I’ll be OK.”

That update will come as a massive relief for Arsenal fans, with the Premier League title race entering its final and most decisive phase.