Newcastle took a massive step towards a second Carabao Cup final in three seasons with a hugely impressive semi-final first leg away win

Mikel Arteta reacts to Arsenal's 2-0 loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semifinal first leg.

The Telegraph’s claim that Mikel Arteta blamed the Carabao Cup ball for Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle lacks nuance, oversimplifying his analysis of missed chances, but is anyone surprised?Arteta

Arteta regularly eulogises over Anfield and St James’ Park, the ‘jungles’ and ‘washing machine’-like atmospheres he revels in. He has spoken of wanting to write the first chapters of defining nights at the Emirates, but the fever that had been building the past two years has faded this season and Tuesday saw some fans leave early.

Arsenal are ‘likely’ to revive their interest in Alexander Isak this summer, with Mikel Arteta’s side open to Newcastle’s price tag, which would exceed €100 million.

Over the years, Arsenal fans have witnessed some impressive performances by strikers wearing the No14 shirt - but this was one they will want to forget in a hurry. Alexander Isak tormented Arsenal as Newcastle ran out 2-0 winners on Tuesday night to put themselves in a commanding position going into the second leg of this Carabao Cup semi-final next month.