MY ACCOUNT
Bukayo Saka was stunned after Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle left their Champions League qualification dreams in tatters.
The Gunners put in a woeful display at St James’ Park, succumbing to a 2-0 loss which has put Tottenham in the driving seat to secure a top-four finish.
And England international Saka, 20, admitted he could not fathom just how poorly Arsenal played in such a big game.
The winger said: “Overall, there is huge disappointment and frustration. I just can’t believe how we performed today.
“We lost all our duels. We lost all the second balls. We didn’t play out well. Just overall disappointment in every aspect.
“I think it’s going to hurt a lot of us tonight. You know, all of us, the fans, all of our families.
“But come Sunday against Everton at the Emirates we’re going to be there to win, and hopefully things go our way. That’s all you can do from now.
“Technically it’s not over, we can still do it, but we’ve missed out on two big opportunities to put ourselves in a good position. So it’s just a shame.”
Result will define Arteta’s tenure
The result means Spurs only need a point at rock-bottom Norwich on the final day to finish fourth thanks to their vastly superior goal difference.
It represents a dismal end to Mikel Arteta’s second full season in charge and ex-England and Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher fears for the Spanish coach.
Carragher suggested the loss on Tyneside could be the result that defines Arteta’s tenure at the Emirates and a season spent in the Europa League spells trouble for the North Londoners.
The 2005 Champions League winner said: “I think that is a problem not just this season but I think it is a huge problem for Mikel Arteta and this Arsenal team going forward.
“I think it is going to be tough for him. I think this will be a game that will be looked back on when he eventually leaves the club.
“Europa League next season, Thursday and Sunday. I think they have had their opportunity this season — a big one — having no European football. That was a big advantage for them.
“They are not in the four best sides in the country but they had an advantage on the other teams and they still haven’t made it pay. I fear for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta next season.”
The Gunners welcome relegation-threatened Everton to the Emirates on Sunday in their final game of the campaign.
