Arsenal suffer successive losses in Inter Milan defeat as Mikel Arteta issue rears head again

Arsenal had dominated large portions of the second half but failed to truly test Yann Sommer in the Inter net, though Kai Havertz had arguably their best chance with a floated effort that was well saved by the Swiss.

With Martin Odegaard on the bench, the Gunners failed to provide much creativity.

The Norwegian had been missing from action after getting injured on international duty.

And while the former Real Madrid star did come on late into the day, there was not enough time to make an impact.

Arsenal huffed and puffed but had little to show for their possession while Inter must be commended for their brilliant defending.

As for the Italians, they took the lead through controversial means when Mikel Merino was adjudged to have handled in the box.

On the cusp of half-time, the ball was hit at the Spaniard from barely a yard away and he had little time to react.

But the referee pointed to the spot immediately, a decision TNT Sports commentator Ally McCoist criticised.

Up stepped Hakan Calhanoglu to take the penalty, hitting his effort past David Raya to make it 19 spot-kicks out of 19 scored.

Arteta responded by throwing Gabriel Jesus on at half-time but it meant little as Arsenal could not break down Inter's defence.

It means they have tasted defeat for the first time in the Champions League, while they still hold a healthy position in the table.

With Chelsea up next on Sunday, Arteta will need to arrest his creativity problem quickly.

Having Odegaard back is undoubtedly a major boost, provided he is fit enough to start against the Blues.

The trip to the San Siro was always going to be a difficult one - Inter have not conceded in the Champions League this season and have three wins out of four.

And with Stamford Bridge on the horizon, Arteta might have the perfect chance to respond.