Mikel Arteta says he stands by his comments relating to Anthony Gordon’s controversial goal in Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to Newcastle, insisting it is his duty to defend his club and players.

The furious Arsenal manager described the decision to award the goal after a triple VAR check as “disgraceful” and “embarrassing” in the aftermath of Saturday’s game at St James’ Park.

The VAR officials determined they could not overturn the on-field decision after finding nothing conclusive following checks for the ball going out of play, a possible offside against Gordon, and an apparent push in the back of Gabriel Magalhaes by Joelinton.

Arsenal subsequently released a statement in support of their manager, asking PGMOL to “urgently address” officiating standards.

The FA have written to Arteta and Arsenal to seek their observations.

Speaking ahead of the Champions League clash with Sevilla, Arteta insisted he had no regrets about his comments, saying: “It is my duty to stand in front of you, the cameras, and give a very clear and honest assessment of what happens in the game. That’s what I did.

“I reflected very openly how I felt the team played, and how the game was conditioned by the decisions which were made.

“It’s my duty to defend my players, support my players, defend my club, support my club, in the best possible way. It’s what I’m going to do time after time.

“I do it not the way I feel, but with the evidence I’m being as clear as possible. I always do it – when we have lost, I take my responsibility to do it. It’s the way I am, and I have to defend my club.”

Asked if his anger related solely to events at St James’ Park or a build-up of decisions, Arteta said: “These things don’t happen overnight. When I was that clear and had the evidence for the words I used in the media, it’s because I feel strongly about it.