Gary Neville says Newcastle United player will be ‘disappointed’ with his performance vs Arsenal

Newcastle United suffered a frustrating afternoon at the Emirates Stadium as they came up short in their pursuit of a crucial victory. Their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal was more than just a missed opportunity; it was a damaging blow in their bid for Champions League qualification.

While the team created several openings, the final touch deserted them, and their efforts were constantly thwarted by the impressive form of Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

The Gunners claimed all three points thanks to a second-half goal from Declan Rice, and despite a determined display from Eddie Howe’s side, they couldn’t find a breakthrough.

Bruno Guimarães and Dan Burn both tested the Arsenal keeper during the first half with dangerous efforts, but Raya’s shot-stopping kept Newcastle off the scoresheet.

The Spanish goalkeeper looked unbeatable throughout, standing tall whenever the Magpies threatened and showing why he’s become such a dependable figure between the posts for Arsenal.

Much of the pre-match focus had been on the absence of Alexander Isak, who was ruled out with a minor groin issue. His unavailability left a significant void in Newcastle’s attacking line, and manager Eddie Howe turned to Callum Wilson to lead the front line.

Wilson, now 33, was handed only his second Premier League start of the season, having previously started away at Liverpool. Hopes were high that his experience could help compensate for Isak’s absence, but the match didn’t unfold in his favor.

Wilson struggled to make a significant impact on the game. He found it difficult to influence proceedings, often isolated and unable to link up effectively with the midfield or wingers.

The few chances that fell his way were either misjudged or smothered before he could capitalize. Howe eventually substituted him in the 64th minute, replacing him with Will Osula, as Newcastle chased an equalizer that never came.

Gary Neville, who was covering the match for Sky Sports, didn’t mince words when commenting on Wilson’s performance. Shortly after the substitution, Neville remarked, “He will be disappointed, Callum Wilson,” capturing the striker’s frustration. It was a sentiment likely shared by Wilson himself, who knows his time at the club could be drawing to a close.

This season has been an unusually quiet one for Wilson in terms of goal return. He has yet to score in the Premier League, with his only goal coming in an FA Cup fixture.

For a striker of his reputation and pedigree, that statistic is telling. It’s not just the lack of goals that will be of concern but also the limited opportunities he’s had to stake a claim in the starting XI due to injury setbacks and the rise of Alexander Isak as the team’s primary forward.

Newcastle now prepare for their final Premier League match of the season, a home fixture against Everton at St James’ Park on Sunday, May 25th. That match could very well represent Wilson’s last appearance in black and white.

His contract expires at the end of the current campaign, and as it stands, there’s been little indication from the club that an extension is on the table. Performances like the one against Arsenal won’t do much to change the minds of decision-makers, especially with Newcastle likely to revamp their squad over the summer to remain competitive at both domestic and European levels.

If Wilson’s time on Tyneside does come to an end, he may still find a future in the Premier League. Reports have linked him with newly-promoted Leeds United, who are preparing to bolster their squad as they return to the top flight.

For Wilson, a move could offer a fresh start and a more prominent role, perhaps something he needs at this stage of his career.

Regardless of what lies ahead, Wilson’s contribution to Newcastle over the years shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s been a committed professional and has scored crucial goals in seasons past.

But football is an unforgiving business, and sentiment rarely outweighs performance. His outing at the Emirates, marked by missed chances and minimal involvement, might well serve as the final chapter in his Newcastle journey. The next few weeks will reveal whether there’s another act to come or if his exit will become part of the club’s larger summer transition.