'It’s a disgrace': Mikel Arteta

Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon (centre) scores during a goal mouth melee against Arsenal. Pic/AFP

Mikel Arteta branded Arsenal's 0-1 defeat at Newcastle "a disgrace" after Anthony Gordon's winner was controversially allowed to stand by VAR. Gordon handed Arsenal their first Premier League loss this term when he slotted home from close-range in the second half at St James' Park. But Arsenal were incensed by the goal, claiming it should have been disallowed for Joelinton's challenge on Gabriel.

Joelinton appeared to push Arsenal defender Gabriel in the back while the pair contested Joe Willock's cross, with the ball running for Gordon to net from virtually on the goal line. After a lengthy VAR check, it was ruled there was no foul, while Arsenal's appeal that the ball went out of play before Willock crossed it was also ignored, as were claims that Gordon was offside.

Not a fair result

"The result should not be what it is. Embarrassing what happened, how this goal stands, in the Premier League, this league we say is the best in the world," Arteta said. "I've been 20 years in this country and now I feel ashamed. It's a disgrace and there's too much at stake here." Arsenal's second loss this week was a huge blow to their title bid, ending a dismal few days after they were also knocked out of the League Cup by West Ham on Wednesday. The Arsenal boss is likely to face at least a fine and possibly a touchline ban for his comments. But the club did not back down as they called for officiating to match the standard of players and coaches in the EPL.

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Club backing for Arteta

"Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta's post-match comments after yet more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening," read a club statement.

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