Carabao Cup: Very lackluster performance, no confidence – Walcott hits Arsenal after defeat to Newcastle

Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has hit out at the Gunners following their Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle United on Tuesday night.

Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon gave Newcastle a 2-0 win against the Premier League North London club.

Reacting, Walcott said Arsenal gave a “very lackluster” display against the visitors.

According to him, Mikel Arteta’s men lacked confidence against Newcastle during the encounter.

Speaking on Sky Sports’ coverage of Tuesday’s game, Walcott said:

“What worries me for Arsenal is they are getting excited about set pieces all the time rather than free-flowing football, which they are known for.”

He added, “We are shying away from it.

“It was a very lackluster performance in the second half.

“It’s going away from free-flowing football and creating chances.

“It is a lack of confidence, I think. I think there were a lot of nerves in the stadium.”

Newcastle will host Arsenal in the return leg in February.