Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admits his side were not clinical enough in their defeat to Arsenal and says the absence of Alexander Isak was a major blow.
Newcastle had several chances to score, especially in the first half, but could not find the back of the net before Arsenal got the winner through Declan Rice in the second half to win 1-0 and secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Howe said after the เว็บพนันออนไลน์ UFABET สมัครง่าย โปรโมชั่นมากมาย game: “We played well in the first half, we were strong but didn’t take clear chances. Their goalkeeper made some great saves.”
“The second half was different but we defended well. The game-winning goal was an incredible effort.”
Howe admitted that the absence of star striker Isak, who missed the match due to injury, has affected the team’s offensive efficiency.
“It’s difficult for us to be without his standards. We looked good in every aspect of the first half but in the final third he’s better than any player this season. He’s got a great finish for us but we still perform well without him.”
Beat Everton at St James’ Park next Sunday, and the Magpies will be guaranteed a Champions League place. Fail to take all three points against David Moyes’ side, though, and they will be relying on other results to hand them a top-five finish.