"I think they’re scared of him" - Pundit claims Arsenal duo William Saliba and Gabriel were frightened by Newcastle star in EFL Cup loss

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given reckons Arsenal centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes were scared of Newcastle's Alexander Isak during their 2-0 defeat. The Gunners were beaten at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, January 7.

Despite dominating the first half, the Gunners were unable to make the most of their chances. They were punished by Isak in the 37th minute after the 25-year-old fired home off the bar. Anthony Gordon netted in the 51st minute to ensure the Magpies secured a vital 2-0 win.

Isak has been in phenomenal form this season, garnering 15 goals and four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions. He showed no signs of slowing down against the Gunners, giving Saliba and Gabriel a tough time with his dangerous runs.

During half-time, Given told Sky Sports (via METRO):

"The two centre-backs, Saliba and Gabriel, have been probably ones of the best parts of Arsenal but I think they’re scared of Isak a bit. His pace, he’s coming in short, he’s running in behind, there was another chance where Isak could’ve put Joe Willock in, he was clean through but just didn’t get enough on the pass. I think he’s frightening these two centre-halves, it’s good for Newcastle."

Gabriel and Saliba have arguably been two of the most consistent defenders in the Premier League this season. However, the latter struggled against Newcastle, losing four duels. Both stars were also guilty of missing one big chance during the game.

Pundit believes Arsenal are the only team that can catch Liverpool in Premier League title race

Football pundit Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Arsenal are the only team left in the Premier League capable of preventing Liverpool from winning the title.

Arne Slot's Liverpool have been sensational this season, losing just one game across competitions to date. They are at the top of the league table with 46 points from 19 games, six points above the Gunners, who have played an extra fixture.

Mikel Arteta and Co. haven't looked convincing in recent weeks. While Nottingham Forest and Chelsea are in third and fourth place respectively, Liverpool are currently the favorites to seal a 20th league title.

Hasselbaink told BetMGM (via METRO):

"I don’t think the title race is over yet. Yes it’s going to be hard [to catch Liverpool] but if Arsenal, and it’s only Arsenal in my eyes, can go on a run then you never know. Liverpool will go through a sticky patch, it always happens. It’s then a case of how close can Arsenal get to them?

"When the Champions League gets bigger and more competitive, it’s going to be harder for Liverpool to maintain things. So, yes, I do think there is still some movement although Liverpool are very much in the driving seat with that game in hand."

He added:

"Arsenal have no room to draw or lose matches now. Their mindset just has to be three points – almost business like – and that’s the only way they will put pressure on Liverpool."

The north London outfit next face Manchester United in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday, January 12.

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