‘Clarity’ – Mikel Arteta breaks silence on major referee change for Arsenal vs Newcastle in EFL Cup semi-final

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Arsenal are preparing for a huge clash in the context of their season as they take on Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final.

The Gunners made their way into the final four of the competition by seeing off the likes of Bolton, Preston and Crystal Palace to seal a chance at silverware.

They will have to dismantle Newcastle to make it to the final though, where Arsenal could face one of Liverpool or Tottenham.

The Magpies have a decent record against Mikel Arteta as of late, recently grabbing a victory at St. James’ Park over the north London outfit.

While Arsenal will have to be at their best, there will also be some eyes directed at the officiating at the Emirates Stadium.

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Arsenal set for key VAR and referee change in Newcastle EFL Cup tie

With Arsenal preparing for the EFL Cup semi-finals, there are some key changes in this round of the competition that wasn’t present in earlier rounds.

VAR hasn’t featured in the cup so far, but will make an appearance at this stage for the final four remaining.

It was a contentious point in the quarter-finals, as Gabriel Jesus was seemingly offside for his winner against Crystal Palace.

Arsenal may feel they are due some luck from the officials, not least following a penalty awarded to Brighton that drew some attention.

There will be one change that isn’t familiar though, as it has been announced that officials will announce their VAR decisions in the stadium if they occur.

The process has been trialled in other matches across the world, but it will be a first for the technology in England.

There is some hope that it will result in clearer communication to those in the stadium surrounding decisions.

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Mikel Arteta gives verdict on VAR announcement for Arsenal vs Newcastle

With Arsenal facing Newcastle first up in the EFL Cup, the match will be a landmark moment for VAR processes.

It’s something Mikel Arteta was quizzed on before the game, telling the press: “Any decision that brings clarity and communication. It’s helpful.”

It suggests the manager is more than welcoming of the decision to make such a change, but whether it will be viewed that way later remains to be seen.

The trial should give a clearer idea of how it would work during matches throughout the season, even if it’s used during a critical point of the current competition.