'I lost connection on my iPad' - Mikel Arteta reveals he missed Everton's last-gasp equalizer in Merseyside derby against Liverpool with Arsenal's title hopes hanging by a thread

Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah had overturned an early opener by Everton’s Beto, putting the Reds on course for victory. However, in the 98th minute, defender James Tarkowski produced a stunning finish past Alisson, snatching a point for Everton.

The goal was a significant moment in the title race, as it meant Liverpool dropped two points, giving Arsenal a lifeline in their pursuit of the top spot. However, while thousands of Everton fans erupted in joy, Arteta was unaware of what had just happened.

Speaking about the match, Arteta admitted he was watching the game on his iPad when, at the most crucial moment, his connection failed.

"I'd better not tell you the story of what happened," Arteta told reporters. "No, no, no. It was a funny one because I lost connection in that moment. I was watching the iPad, and I lost the connection. We didn't know exactly what was going on.

"That's the beauty of football, that uncertainty and the fact that for everybody, and it's not the first time, for everybody it's really difficult to win matches in this league. That's why always the hope and the ambition is there because to do it consistently for 10 months is a very, very, very long league."

While the late goal gave Everton a reason to celebrate, the aftermath saw heated confrontations between both sets of players. Abdoulaye Doucoure taunted the Liverpool away fans, which provoked a response from Reds academy graduate Curtis Jones. The situation quickly escalated into a pushing and shoving altercation, forcing referee Michael Oliver to intervene.

Both Doucoure and Jones were given marching orders, resulting in suspensions. Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Arne Slot was also sent off after the final whistle for his protests against the officiating. Slot, Liverpool and Everton have all been charged by the Football Association.

Liverpool’s draw means that Arsenal remain within striking distance, sitting seven points behind the league leaders. The Gunners will return to action on February 15, when they face Leicester away in their next Premier League fixture.