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BBC Sport pundit says £27m Arsenal star ‘was as good as anyone’ vs Newcastle

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BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks has showered Gabriel Magalhaes with praise after Arsenal’s 4-1 win against Newcastle United.

The Gunners responded to their 1-0 loss against FC Porto on Wednesday to claim a huge result in the Premier League, with Arsenal extending their winning run in the division to six games.

The victory took the north London side just two points off leaders Liverpool, with Arsenal looking formidable in the Premier League as England’s new best side based on recent form.

Gabriel Magalhaes showered with praise after Arsenal win vs Newcastle

Arsenal FC v Newcastle United - Premier League
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And writing for BBC Sport, Crooks has lauded Gabriel’s performance against the Magpies, with the Brazilian international once again a rock at the back as well as an aerial threat as the defender played a role in the opening goal.

Indeed, Gabriel has been a bargain addition to Mikel Arteta’s ranks at £27m, and the defender is showing this season why he is one of the most underrated centre-backs in all of Europe.

Crooks said about Gabriel’s performance against Newcastle: “They returned from a 1-0 loss at Porto in midweek and battered Newcastle, and Brazil centre-back Gabriel was as good as anyone in an Arsenal shirt.

“If the Newcastle hierarchy want what Arsenal have then they are going to have to pay for it. It’s no coincidence that the top three teams in the league have the best squads in the country.”

Arsenal’s defence could lead Mikel Arteta to historic success

Arsenal FC v Liverpool FC - Premier League
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Whilst Arsenal’s attack are winning all the plaudits in recent weeks, praise must be extended to Gabriel and William Saliba, who have been nothing short of astonishing in the last six games.

Three goals conceded and three clean sheets has provided Arsenal with the best defence in the league, a feat that’s arguably better than having the Premier League’s best attack.

And for Arteta, the current defence could be what awards Arsenal with historic success, with the Premier League and UEFA Champions League still up for grabs.