MIKEL ARTETA blasted his Arsenal side had “two scandalous penalties” turned down against Newcastle.
Referee Andy Madley waved away furious appeals from the home side on two occasions in the 0-0 stalemate at the Emirates.
The first came when Dan Burn tugged Gabriel Magalhaes’ shirt at a free-kick on the hour mark.
And Arsenal were screaming for a spot-kick again deep into stoppage time at the end of the game.
A Granit Xhaka cross struck the arm of Jacob Murphy at point-blank range, with Madley again ignoring furious penalty claims.
A livid Arteta raged to Sky Sports after the game: “We had two scandalous penalties [denied].”
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When asked which of the claims was stronger, he hit back: “It’s not about the stronger, they are two penalties. That’s very simple.”
Arteta was then quizzed if he had spoken to referee Madley on the incidents.
He replied: “I am talking about what I’ve seen now, and it’s two scandalous penalties.”
Arteta and Newcastle boss Eddie Howe were involved in a touchline bust-up as the Gunners pleaded for a late penalty.
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But the Toon gaffer claimed there was no issue between them when giving his view on the incident.
Howe said: “I didn’t think it was a penalty and at that stage it would have been a travesty.
“Me and Mikel are fine.”
The Gunners missed out on the chance to go ten points clear at the top of the table after the fiery stalemate.
They are currently eight points ahead of Manchester City, who have played one game less than Arteta’s side.
Newcastle meanwhile are third, nine points behind the Gunners, having played a game more.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
