Howe's post-match message to Mikel Arteta after Arsenal boss' petty comments

Eddie Howe seemingly took aim at Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta following the Spaniard's ‘irrelevant’ remarks in the wake of Newcastle's 1-0 win over the Gunners.

In the early kick-off on Saturday, the Magpies put in arguably their best display of the season against last term's runners-up, with Alexander Isak scoring the only goal at St James’ Park with a superb first-half header.

It was a source of frustration for Arteta after the game, with his side failing to win in their last three Premier League matches. Speaking after the defeat, Arteta made a backhanded compliment to Newcastle and Howe, saying that the side "are really good at what they want to do."

The head coach said this exact comment three times, according to The Athletic. Some have taken it as an insult or post-match jibe at our style of play, with reference to Newcastle's supposed 'dark arts'.

Howe was quizzed about Arteta’s remarks in his post-match press conference, saying: "It’s irrelevant to me what anyone says, really, apart from my team. And that’s how we’ve always looked at it because there’s always outside noise wherever that comes from.

"We just try to do what we do to: try to win games on a consistent basis. Generally the last few games, our performance level has definitely increased and we’ve been consistent with it."

The win has served as a huge boost to Newcastle. having lost their last two Premier League games, to Brighton and Chelsea, respectively. The side are now 10th in the table but just three points off fourth spot.

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