Mikel Arteta believes that refereeing decisions have greatly improved since his furious VAR rant following Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle in November.
The Gunners fell to a 1-0 defeat at St James’ Park, with the Spaniard taking exception to Anthony Gordon’s goal.
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Gordon’s goal has proven to be one of the most controversial of the seasonCredit: Getty
Arteta was of the view that the ball had originally went out of play, while he argued that Gabriel was fouled by Joelinton in the build-up, but VAR allowed the goal to stand.
The 41-year-old branded the decision as a ‘disgrace’ during a fiery post-match rant and was subsequently fined by the FA for his comments – though he was later cleared of any wrongdoing.
And speaking ahead of the reverse fixture at the Emirates on Saturday night, he hinted that the use of VAR has got better since his angry outburst.
“Well that is what we all wanted,” Arteta replied when asked if he has seen improvement from officials and the technology since the defeat.
“That at the end the decisions are better and I think the last stats that came across show that there was a significant improvement.
“And a lot of the decisions they were getting right, so hopefully that is the case and we continue to do that.
“I talked the way I felt. I was very straight and I did it in a way that was pretty strong but within the law because I didn’t get charged for it and I think that tells the story.”
Arteta came under criticism for his outburst, but doubled down on his beliefs and insisted it was his ‘duty’ to defend the club.
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Arteta was charged for his outburst but believes VAR has improved sinceCredit: Getty
Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle was also their first of the season in the Premier League, and they know they can’t afford another slip-up in their title pursuit.
The north Londoners currently sit third, with a win against the Magpies to take them two points behind leaders Liverpool, who don’t play in the league this weekend due to the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea.
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And they could also leapfrog Manchester City into second should the Citizens fail to beat Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
Arsenal are looking for an immediate response following Wednesday’s 1-0 Champions League last-16 first leg defeat to Porto.
Arteta’s side failed to produce a shot on target all game, but have been in imperious form in the top-flight having scored 21 goals in their last five matches.
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