Newcastle United midfielder James Perch admits defeat at Manchester United was devastating.

The Geordies travel to Arsenal today for another crack at seeing off one of the big guns.

He said: "We were all gutted after Boxing Day. It's a really tough one to take, losing in the last minute after leading three times in the game. All the lads are really down about it.

"It's probably the worst defeat I've ever had. We deserved so much more out of it. Now we have to turn it around. That's what training is for. It's the only way to respond.

"We just have to forget about United and look forward. We have to put it behind us as quickly as possible so we can concentrate on formation and tactics for the next game.

"At United, we were thinking in the dressing room afterwards that the world was conspiring against us. Things went our way last year. We did not get injuries and suspensions.

"This year, we are getting both at the wrong time."