‘Absolute disgrace’ - Mikel Arteta fuming as Arsenal lose 1-0 to Newcastle United at St James’ Park

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta labelled Newcastle United’s winning goal against Arsenal at St James’ Park as an “absolute disgrace”.

Anthony Gordon’s second-half strike was the difference between the two sides and Arteta was left fuming at the decision to let the goal stand.

In a lengthy VAR check, the officials at Stockley Park made three checks, the first for the ball going out of play, the second for a foul on Gabriel by Joelinton and the third for an offside against Gordon.

The VAR review lasted five minutes before the goal was finally awarded as Newcastle extended their unbeaten Premier League run to seven matches and moved four points behind the third-place Gunners.

“I have praised my players for the way they played and competed in this stadium against this team,” Arteta said..“The result should not be what it is - there are many reasons for that.

“If there was a team looking to win the game today it was Arsenal.

“Embarrassing what happened - how this goal stands, in the Premier League - this league we say is the best in the world. I’ve been 20 years in this country and now I feel ashamed. It’s an absolute disgrace and there’s too much at stake here. We are trying to do incredible things and be at the highest level each week. When we’re not good enough I hold my hands up and take responsibility.

“The outcome is nowhere near the level this league needs to have and the way this league is getting competed in. It’s not good enough. I feel embarrassed to be part of this.”