The EFL have made a statement in defence of the Carabao Cup match ball after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said it was “tricky”.

The English Football League (EFL) has defended the ball used in the League Cup after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said it "flies differently" from those used in the Premier League.

Arsenal's FA Cup third round match against defending champions Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday will be played with a special edition match ball made by Mitre

Mikel Arteta reacts to Arsenal's 2-0 loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semifinal first leg.

It was a first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal for Arsenal to forget as Alexander Isak's goal and assist powered Newcastle United to a 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium, but while Mikel Arteta gave Newcastle credit for their performance,

Mikel Arteta knew exactly where to pinpoint the blame for Arsenal's defeat to Newcastle on Tuesday night.Not a lack of effort, or skill or finesse - no, the Gunners boss was quick to blame the Puma

Mikel Arteta made headlines when blaming the match ball when Arsenal lost 2-0 at home to Newcastle United. As always, the Gunners boss looking for excuses when his team lose, rather than graciously accepting the defeat.

Tuesday's 2-0 loss to Newcastle United in the first leg of Arsenal's semifinal tie in the Carabao Cup was the latest example of the struggles manager Mikel Arteta is having to deal with personnel-wise.

Mikel Arteta has come under fire for his comments regarding the ball in Arsenal's 2-0 loss to Newcastle - and the EFL have now had their say.

The English Football League (EFL) has defended its Carabao Cup match ball after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta suggested it contributed to his team's poor shooting in their 2-0 semi-final first leg defeat to Newcastle United.