Eddie Howe is hopeful Newcastle United have turned a corner after their recent struggles, insisting there was a "big step forward" during their defeat at Arsenal.
Newcastle suffered their fifth straight loss in all competitions, after Eberechi Eze's early strike sealed a 1-0 win for the title-chasing hosts at the Emirates Stadium.
The Magpies have now lost nine times in the Premier League in 2026, the joint-most defeats by any side during that time (level with Tottenham and Burnley).
Nevertheless, Howe believes there were positives to take from the visitors' performance, as they enjoyed over half of the possession and registered 13 shots to Arsenal's 11.
"Today was a big step forward in terms of our performance – we haven't hit the heights in recent weeks," he said.
"I think it was our best defensive performance for a long time. We looked solid, we looked good.
"I thought we saw defensive resilience, we didn’t have the look of a team who was going to concede today. To lose in the manner we did is disappointing.
"We have to get out of the habit of losing games. The disappointing run continues and that’s something we want to stop. Performances always give you hope you’re heading in the right direction. Today, I hope will be a turning of the corner for us."
Defeat at the Emirates. pic.twitter.com/nVBo2npjnR
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) April 25, 2026
Newcastle remain 14th in the Premier League table, and are now eight points off the European qualifying places with four games remaining.
Bruno Guimaraes, who made his first start since February, conceded things must improve for the sake of the club's supporters.
"We fight, especially today," he added. "I know this season has not been good enough. It’s not what the fans deserve. The fires are still there, but we have to show more.
"It’s not easy to come here, but at least today, we showed passion. We have four games to try and qualify for European football next season.
"I am just a player, but we have to improve a lot of things in the club. I think we need help."