Newcastle United boss Steve McClaren feels his side showed courage against Arsenal despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat.

An own goal by Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini handed all three points to the away side at St. James’ Park earlier today.




After Aleksandar Mitrovic was sent off in the 16th minute because of a studs-up challenge on Francis Coquelin, the Magpies were always up against it, but it took a deflected goal in the 52nd minute for Arsenal to take the lead.

Newcastle showed some resolute defending with ten men and Arsenal created very few opportunities to extend their lead, but they did take the three points back to north London.
 


While he hailed the spirit his side showed after going down to ten men, McClaren feels referee Andre Marriner had a disappointing game overall and believes Mitrovic didn’t deserve a straight red for his challenge.

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"All we could do is show spirit and fight and they were magnificent”, McClaren said on BT Sport.

“It was a harsh red card. It was more clumsy and he stood on his foot.

“I just felt early on there were too many yellows and it was a rod for the referee's back."

Newcastle have collected just two points from their opening four league games and are still waiting for the first win of their season.

They will take an away trip to West Ham after the international break.