Breaking News: Arsenal star ‘plays like a headless chicken’ and proves Theo Walcott right

Arsenal suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the initial leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, with Mikel Arteta lacking the creativity and finishing ability of Bukayo Saka.

Gabriel Martinelli was wasteful against Newcastle (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Getty Images)

Theo Walcott’s forecast was validated as Arsenal significantly lacked Bukayo Saka during their Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg loss to Newcastle.

The Magpies achieved a 2-0 triumph at the Emirates Stadium, obtaining a substantial edge for the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.

Alexander Isak exploited a lost ball from a lengthy free-kick, while Anthony Gordon augmented their advantage by capitalizing on a rebound.

Gabriel Martinelli struck the exterior of the post in the first half when in a one-on-one situation with Martin Dubravka, while Kai Havertz directed a free header wide from close proximity, leaving Arsenal unfulfilled.

They will journey to St James’ Park for the second leg on February 5, confronting a formidable challenge to attain the final at Wembley.

Saka, with nine goals and 13 assists in 24 matches this season, is sidelined due to a hamstring injury, transferring the offensive duties to Martinelli, Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Martin Odegaard on Tuesday night.

Although Martinelli scored in the 3-1 victory over Brentford last week, his performance against Newcastle was subpar. Mikel Arteta positioned him on the left and selected Trossard on the right, although the Arsenal manager’s choice proved ineffective.

Martinelli’s failure to score in the first half was a pivotal moment for Arsenal, who consistently had their crosses into the box thwarted by Newcastle’s robust defense.

Former Arsenal player Walcott attentively observed the match, providing candid insight on Martinelli prior to kickoff for Sky Sports.

“I have expressed this opinion because he occasionally exhibits erratic behavior on the field.” At times, I was preoccupied. “Utilize your strengths, specifically his speed,” stated Walcott.

In one-on-one situations, I am exceedingly frustrated when players pass the ball back to the full-back and anticipate him to take action.

“I assert, ‘As a forward player, you must fulfill your role and utilize the talents bestowed upon you that enabled your ascent to professional football.'”

Despite a vigorous performance in the last moments, characterized by numerous crosses into the box, Martinelli was unable to translate his efforts into shots on target, missing the mark on three tries and failing to execute a single dribble.

Last month, after a 5-1 victory against Crystal Palace, Mikel Arteta expressed firm confidence in Martinelli’s capacity to substitute for the unavailable Saka.

The Spaniard stated: “He significantly influenced the match [against Palace], and similar to other players, everyone must contribute additionally since Bukayo, on whom we heavily depend, will not be available.”

“Gabi adores it.” Gabi, you presented him with a challenge, and he wishes to undertake it today, if possible. He appears to be a player who embraces responsibilities and seeks a more significant position. Thus, it is imperative for all of them to assume responsibility at this moment.