Mikel Arteta launched a defiant response about his Arsenal squad after a disappointing display and result against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
The Gunners were well-off the pace on their trip to the north east, with Alexander Isak opening the scoring inside 15 minutes for the hosts. The striker rose highest to meet a wonderful cross from Anthony Gordon, getting himself in between Gabriel and William Saliba to nod home.
Arteta’s side were unable to force many true openings throughout the game, coming close to an equaliser on two occasions as Declan Rice saw a shot deflect just wide before later heading a golden opportunity wide from Bukayo Saka’s cross.
The lack of creativity was a key drawback from the Gunners’ performance, but Arteta insisted that his side cannot blame it all on the absence of Martin Odegaard, who looks set to return from injury at some point in the next week – either against Inter in the Champions League or away at Chelsea next Sunday.
