Alan Shearer’s lighthearted statement following the contentious Newcastle United vs. Arsenal incident

Newcastle United’s victory over Arsenal revolved around a single contentious incident. In the second half, Anthony Gordon’s goal secured three points for Eddie Howe’s team on a damp and heated evening at St. James’ Park. Just before halftime, tensions escalated when Kai Havertz’s robust challenge on Sean Longstaff led to a scuffle involving both players and staff.

Stuart Attwell booked Havertz for the tackle, and despite VAR’s presence, the yellow card was not upgraded to a red one. This decision sparked extensive discussions among the spectators and on social media. Nevertheless, the controversy didn’t solely revolve around Havertz’s tackle.

Attwell also issued yellow cards to Anthony Gordon, Fabian Schar, and Longstaff in the aftermath of the incident. Alan Shearer, Newcastle United’s all-time leading goalscorer, playfully commented on the situation with a post on a platform. Yet, Shearer wasn’t the lone individual questioning Attwell’s decision-making on that Saturday evening.

The debate continued after Gordon’s match-winning goal, with VAR conducting three checks. The technology examined whether Joe Willock had kept the ball in play, reviewed a potential foul by Joelinton, and scrutinized an offside infringement related to the eventual goal scorer.

VAR ultimately determined that no offense had occurred. However, Mikel Arteta expressed his vehement displeasure with the decision to award Newcastle’s goal in a fiery post-match outburst, saying, “The fact that this goal was allowed is unbelievable and embarrassing.

“It’s an utter disgrace for multiple reasons, and it’s difficult to compete at this level. This makes me feel nauseous. I’ve spent 20 years in this country, and now I’m ashamed. It’s a disgrace, and there’s too much at stake. We’re striving for excellence and competing at the highest level each week. When we’re not up to par, I take responsibility.

“The outcome falls far short of the standard this league should uphold and the level of competition in this league. It’s unacceptable. I’m embarrassed to be part of this.”