Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang took Arsenal to victory with two precious goals – but missed a hat-trick because he needed a bathroom break.
Aubameyang was replaced two minutes after the second goal and Mikel Arteta admitted that the Arsenal captain had to run to the locker room.
“Yes, he had to go in, so we had to change that,” said Arteta, who smiled when he said that the winner of the match had a “stomach problem”.
But it was an important night for Aubameyang, who lost a player in the first half and struggled for goals this season, before scoring twice after the break.
Artillery chief Arteta said: “I thought [Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang] had two or three very big opportunities in the first half, which did not score.
“But these goals today will give you confidence, this is good for the team.
(Image: Pool via REUTERS)
“This is what he has done throughout his career, he always went ahead and scored goals when he needed to and that is what he did for us tonight.
“I am very satisfied. Collectively and individually it was very strong. Overall, the team seemed confident, solid and very clear about what we had to do. I am very happy with the clean sheet and the goals.”
Arteta also praised young Emile Smith-Rowe and Bukayo Saka, who scored the latter’s goal, while Arsenal put more pressure on Newcastle coach Steve Bruce.
(Image: POOL / AFP via Getty Images)
Arteta said: “I know what young players are capable of. They put a smile on my face.
“This is a credit to them and their teammates. His performances were extraordinary.
“Expectations are high with them, so we have to take them the right way. It’s a mix of energy, passion and a little bit of immaturity sometimes which is good since you don’t play so tense. They did very well. “
Arteta also confirmed that Mesut Ozil should complete his transfer to Fenerbahçe in the next few days and said he would miss him despite his prolonged departure.
Arteta added: “He is in Turkey now. He’s going through the doctor and there are some roles to play. When the deal is closed, we will make an announcement.
“We are always sorry to see such a player leave the club.”
Bruce is now struggling to save his job, but he insisted that the performance against Arsenal was an improvement.
Bruce added: “You will have a difficult time if you are in the Premier League and the second half. We have to clean up, regain confidence and try to win games whenever we can.
“It is about achieving this right balance. Unfortunately, throwing bodies forward to try to score to win the match and we were punished. “
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