Mikel Arteta renews fiery rivalry with Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall with touchline argument during Gunners' defeat at St James' Park

The Arsenal boss was upset when Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schar had stopped a dangerous counter-attack with a tactical foul and began to have words with his opposite numbers in the Newcastle technical area. Arteta and Eddie Howe's assistant came close to one another, shouting in each other's direction, and had to be separated by the fourth official. It was a moment in which Arsenal and Arteta's frustration on a difficult afternoon reached a climax.

Arteta was rather mild-mannered in his reflections after the game compared to last season. A year ago, the Spanish boss, lamented the decision to award Newcastle's controversial winning goal. He said: "Embarrassing what happened - how this goal stands, in the Premier League - this league we say is the best in the world.

"When we're not good enough I hold my hands up and take responsibility.

"It's not good enough. I feel embarrassed to be part of this."

However, this year, the Gunners boss could have no complaints for the officiating and offered a short reflection. He said: "We expect every opponent has their qualities and characteristics and they’re really good at what they do."

Arsenal were not good enough against Newcastle and struggled to assert themselves throughout the game. A fantastic Alexander Isak header from an equally impressive Anthony Gordon cross was enough for the Magpies to earn back-to-back 1-0 home wins against the Gunners. Arsenal are now three games without a win in the Premier League and have slipped seven points behind Liverpool.

The Gunners face another tricky trip on the road this week as they head to Italy to take on Inter. Arteta's side then face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, desperate to curtail this troublesome run of form.