Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has leapt to the defence of team-mate Santi Cazorla, following accusations that he dived to win a penalty against West Brom.

Cazorla was accused of simulation after he went over following a challenge from Steven Reid, with cameras suggesting that there was little contact.

Baggies manager Steve Clarke was furious at the actions of the Spaniard, stating that there was no contact made and that the decision was incorrect.

But, Arteta, who netted from the spot-kick, has backed his fellow Gunners star, who believes that there was contact and that the penalty was fair:

“Santi said he felt something.” He is quoted by The Metro.

“Even if it’s little, it is contact. The ref makes decisions, some right and some wrong.

“Santi is not a player who dives.

“He felt something and changed direction, but he is not that type of player.”

The incident outshone a return to winning ways for Arsenal, who have endured a tough run of results recently.