What did Mikel Arteta say about the Newcastle United goal?

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has slammed officials for allowing Anthony Gordon’s winner to stand in his side’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United.

Arteta described the decision as “embarrassing” and an “absolute disgrace” in an explosive post-match press conference.

“It’s incredible we have to talk about the result,” Arteta said. “We have to talk about how the hell this goal stands up. I feel embarrassed.”

“I have been in this country for more than 20 years and this [decision] is nowhere near the best league in the world. I am sorry.”

With that defeat Arsenal fall behind new league leaders Manchester City in the table. Tottenham Hotspur can retake top spot and go five points clear of the Gunners with a win against Chelsea on Monday.

Why was Anthony Gordon’s goal allowed?

A feisty game between two of the best teams in the league was decided by a controversial Anthony Gordon goal midway through the second half. The goal was subject to VAR checks for three separate infringements before eventually being given.

Referee Stuart Attwell and the team of VAR officials had to confirm that the ball had stayed in play before being crossed into the Arsenal box; if Joelinton had committed a foul on Gabriel Margalhaes; and whether Gordon was in an offside position.

After a considerable delay to the game Attwell awarded the goal. In the post-match press conference Arteta was pressed on the fact that officials had taken the time to analyse the footage before making a decision.

“That makes it even worse. You just need to see one image,” Arteta replied. “And if you have any doubt you can look at the second one.”

“I have to stand here and explain. We lost three points. There is too much at stake, it is embarrassing.”