Arsenal receive double boost in wake of West Ham defeat amid Newcastle selection decision

A very disappointing night indeed for the Gunners who exit the Carabao Cup once again early on. With Manchester City out of the competition, the emphasis was on Arsenal to reach the latter stages and even win but based on the performance it did not seem like that was in the player’s minds at all.

Mikel Arteta made several changes to the starting eleven knowing a trip to Newcastle takes place in just three days’ time. Yet he will be frustrated with a performance from a side containing plenty of expensive stars.

The focus can of course turn to what could be argued as more important things. However, there’s still plenty of reflections to be had and football.london takes a look at the key successes and areas for development.

With the League Cup out of the picture for the Gunners again at an early stage, it does rule out the potential for further fixtures next month and in the New Year. Those involved in African Cup of Nations and Asia Cup games won't have a double-legged semi-final to worry about missing.

But the frustration will of course be that with the opportunity on offer, they didn’t take it. Question marks were again raised over the investment in depth in the squad.

Having missed the weekend game because of an opportunity to take to rest him, Martin Odegaard came onto the field and showed what the Gunners had been missing. His goal was well taken after some good movement.

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The positive of course is that he has got some important minutes into his legs before the weekend. The game with Newcastle has even more pressure on it after a defeat but