NEWCASTLE boss Graeme Souness last night imposed a media blackout in the wake of his side's 2-0 defeat at Arsenal, writes Scott Wilson.

The Magpies were on the wrong end of two controversial decisions at Highbury, with referee Steve Bennett sending off midfielder Jermaine Jenas for a mistimed tackle on Gilberto Silva before awarding the home side a crucial penalty after Charles N'Zogbia caught Freddie Ljungberg inside the box.

After the final whistle, a clearly disgruntled Souness refused to speak to any member of the written press, spurned any requests from radio representatives and even failed to provide his obligatory interview to Sky TV.

The Scot, who was fined by the FA after criticising referee Barry Knight's performance in the penultimate game of last season, felt unable to discuss any aspect of his side's display in North London.

In addition, he also banned any of his players from speaking to the media, citing the "controversial" nature of the game as reason enough for the ban.

Thousands of Newcastle supporters made the long trip to the capital for yesterday's early kick-off and provided unstinting support for their team before and after Jenas' dismissal.

The club's players produced a similarly exemplary response in the aftermath of Jenas' red card. It is a shame the same cannot be said of their manager.

All other Premier League managers (with the exception of the seemingly untouchable Alex Ferguson) find it within themselves to share their views with their supporters.

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