Gabriel Magalhaes should be ’embarrassed’ for what he did vs Newcastle, says Spurs legend
Arsenal travelled to Newcastle United with their sights set on gaining ground on league leaders Liverpool after their loss to Crystal Palace.
Arsenal wanted a penalty against Newcastle United, but Jarred Gillett’s initial decision to award the spot kick was overturned by VAR on second viewing.
Newcastle took the lead against Arsenal through Nick Woltemade, who scored his second header in as many home appearances at St. James’ Park for his new club so far this season.
Arsenal looked to be more aggressive against Newcastle than they were against Manchester City, while Newcastle were searching to kickstart their campaign.
Les Ferdinand says Gabriel Magalhaes should be ’embarrassed’ for role in Newcastle opener
Woltemade’s opener for Newcastle came from a well-worked corner, which was headed in by the 23-year-old, after a tussle with Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
Gabriel felt he had been pushed and dropped dramatically to the floor before Woltemade nodded home, and Tottenham legend Les Ferdinand gave his view on Sky Sports.
Ferdinand said: “When I first saw this I thought he’d put two hands on his back but when he sees this back Gabriel he should be embarrassed. He’ll be embarrassed when he sees that.
“I think it looks like a push because all the players are appealing for it but when you see it again you think how is he going down because of that?”
Although Ferdinand slammed Gabriel for his role in that goal, it was his late headed winner that secured Arsenal an incredible comeback win at St James’ Park.
Nick Woltemade makes instant impact, even without Yoane Wissa
When Newcastle lost Alexander Isak, there was great concern on Tyneside about who would fill the shooting boots of the Swede.
The Magpies took a goals-by-committee approach in the transfer window, buying Woltemade and Yoane Wissa.
| Nick Woltemade vs Arsenal | Stat |
| Goals | 1 |
| Pass accuracy | 82% |
| Passes into final third | 1 |
| Touches in opposition box | 2 |
| Expected goals | 0.21 |
Before Wissa’s injury, many believed the Democratic Republic of Congo international would take the bulk of the gametime while Woltemade adapted to English football.
However, Woltemade has scored two goals in two home games already for Howe’s side while Wissa remains sidelined with injury.
Howe will be positive about how Woltemade has made an instant impact on his side, and will look forward to welcoming Wissa back to his side after the former Brentford man scored 19 goals in the Premier League last season.