Timber singled out for criticism after Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle United

Former Arsenal star Lee Dixon has reacted to their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the EFL Cup on Tuesday as he singled out the club’s full-back, Jurrien Timber for criticism.

Dixon berated the Dutch defender, criticising his poor defending that led to the Magpies’ second goal as the Gunners lost the first leg of the semi-final.

The match saw Alexander Isak scoring his 14th goal of the season to give Newcastle the opener in the 37th minute of the first half.

English player Anthony Gordon scored the second goal for the visitors in the 51st minute after he took action after Isak’s shot, which was initially stopped by David Raya.

Dixon blasted Timber for allowing Gordon to get the rebound first, stressed that he should have anticipated the ball and cleared the danger.

While speaking via ITV, Dixon said: “There’s the space, there’s the ball, but at the far post, Timber, bits and pieces, too slow. You’ve got to react to the goalkeeper’s save better than that.”

Following the defeat to Newcastle, Arsenal will now make a trip to Tyneside for the second leg on February 5 and they will hope to bounce back with a win.