Noni Madueke sends one-word Gabriel message after dramatic Arsenal winner and two flashpoints

All those connected with Arsenal around the globe were locked into the celebrations on Sunday after their late win over Newcastle United — and Noni Madueke was no different.

The Gunners gave their campaign a major boost at St James’ Park as Gabriel headed home a winner deep into stoppage time to seal a 2-1 comeback victory. Arsenal had fallen behind in the first half to Nick Woltemade’s header, having earlier seen a penalty award controversially overturned by VAR. But they hit back after the break through Mikel Merino before Gabriel struck in the 96th minute.

The decisive goal sparked wild scenes in the away end and on the pitch. Madueke clearly enjoyed the moment too, posting “monster” alongside an image of the Brazilian defender on social media after the game.

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The England winger joined Arsenal from Chelsea this summer in a surprise move. Although the signing raised a few eyebrows, Madueke began the season brightly before suffering a knee injury in last weekend’s clash with Manchester City. He is now expected to spend around two months on the sidelines.

While Gabriel was the hero for Arsenal, he was also involved in two incidents that angered the home support.

Newcastle appealed for a penalty after the ball struck the centre-back’s arm in the area, but the referee waved play on. Gabriel also clashed with Woltemade, appearing to block the striker’s run and catching him in the face.

“After the goal there was a situation — I felt his elbow in my face from two metres, so his arm had to be really high,” said the frustrated Newcastle forward.

“I just told the referee I felt something in the face and I don’t think that’s right. But I’m not the type of player to fall down for this. Sometimes maybe you have to, but that’s not my type of football.

“He said sorry after, so I think he knew he hit me in the face. It didn’t solve the situation, to be honest.”

The win lifts Arsenal to within two points of Premier League leaders Liverpool, who were beaten 2-1 by Crystal Palace on Saturday thanks to a 97th-minute winner from former Gunners forward Eddie Nketiah.