Newcastle United remain just three points above fifth-place Liverpool following a 2-0 defeat to Premier League title challengers Arsenal. Martin Odegaard’s first-half strike and an own goal by Fabian Schar condemned Eddie Howe’s side to defeat.
Liverpool’s win at Brentford yesterday increased the pressure ahead of kick-off, and United are facing a nervy week before visiting Leeds United in next Saturday early kick-off.
The Magpies were awarded a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes when Bruno Guimaraes’ shot struck Jakub Kiwior’s arm. However, after a VAR check at the pitchside monitor, referee Chris Kavanagh controversially overturned his decision.
And moments later, the visitors took the lead when Martin Odegaard’s 25-yard shot found the bottom corner.
United pushed for an equaliser but the game was put to bed in the 71st-minute when Gabriel Martinelli’s cross was diverted into his own net by Fabian Schar.
Here’s our Newcastle United player ratings from the defeat at St James’ Park.
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5. Sven Botman - 5
Was completely outpaced on a couple of occasions. Odegaard’s opener travelled through the Dutchman’s legs before he failed to stop Martinelli’s low cross for the second goal. | AFP via Getty Images

6. Dan Burn - 7
His 50th Premier League appearance for Newcastle. Nullified Saka’s threat. | Getty Images

7. Bruno Guimaraes - 5
His worst game for a long time. Started positively after being denied a penalty by VAR but wasn’t his usual self. Gave away some cheap fouls. | Getty Images

8. Joe Willock - 5
Very wasteful in possession. Should have equalised in the 27th-minute with a shot straight at Ramsdale. Denied after the break via last-ditch Xhaka challenge. | Getty Images