Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says VAR has 'improved significantly' since outburst of anger following Newcastle defeat

Mikel Arteta believes refereeing decisions have greatly improved since his furious VAR speech after Arsenal's defeat to Newcastle in November..

He gunners lost 1-0 at St James' Park, and the Spaniard opposed Anthony Gordon's goal.

Arteta believed the ball had originally gone out of play, while arguing that Gabriel was fouled by Joelinton in the build-up, but var allowed the goal to remain standing.

The 41-year-old qualified the decision. like a 'misfortune' during a fiery post-match rant and was later fined by the FA for his comments, although he was later clear of any irregularity.

And speaking ahead of the second leg at the Emirates on Saturday night, he hinted that the use of VAR has improved since his angry outburst.

“Well, that's what we all wanted.” arteta responded when asked if he had seen improvements in officials and technology since the defeat.

“That in the end the decisions are better and I think the latest statistics we found show that there was a significant improvement.

“And a lot of the decisions they made were right, so I hope that's the case and we continue to do it.”

“I spoke how I felt. I was very sincere and I did it in a pretty strong way, but within the law because they didn't charge me for it and I think that tells the story.”

Arteta was criticized for his outburst but doubled down on his beliefs and insisted it was his “duty” to defend the club.

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Arsenal's defeat at Newcastle was also their first of the season in the Premier League, and they know they cannot afford another mistake in their quest for the title.

The north Londoners are currently in third place, with a win against the Magpies taking them two points behind leaders Liverpool, who are not playing in the league this weekend due to the Carabao Cup Final against Chelsea.

And they could also overtake Manchester City and move into second place if the Citizens fail to beat Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

Arsenal are looking for an immediate response after Wednesday's 1-0 defeat in the Champions League round of 16 first leg against Porto.

Arteta's side failed to get a shot on target all game but have been in imperious top-flight form, having scored 21 goals in their last five games.