Title-chasing Arsenal were lucky to get a break after the Hammers’ late goal against West Ham was chalked away due to controversial VAR intervention at the weekend.
(Image: Sky Sports)
Jamie Carragher has claimed Arsenal’s double standards are the reason they are “hated” following the West Ham controversy. The Gunners thought their title bid had suffered a major blow after Callum Wilson’s second-half equalizer at the London Stadium.
The referee initially conceded the goal, but after a lengthy VAR check, the shot was ruled out for a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
The controversy comes after a season in which Arsenal have used set-pieces to their advantage, both offensively and defensively.
And Carragher complained that his own goal had been canceled for similar reasons, claiming it had only damaged his reputation.
He told Sky Sports: “It all started a couple of seasons ago with Arsenal putting 15 players in the six-yard box, but the reason people are frustrated with Arsenal and feel like they’ve gotten away with it is because they’re a football club that tries to push the boundaries in every area to try to get an advantage. That’s why they’re hated.”
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“The manager stands on the touchline, pushing away the opposition left-back or right-back, screaming in his ear. Gabriel falls to the floor every time someone blows on him.”
“Goalkeepers are the first ones to take the atmosphere in the stadium to another level, what they do on set pieces. That’s why there’s a feeling of, ‘They’re doing it every week, so how do they get away with it?’ But that doesn’t mean this isn’t a foul.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also weighed in on the decision, praising those involved in canceling the goal.
West Ham’s late goal against Arsenal was ruled out by VAR review (Image: Getty Images)
“When I had to be critical, I did it. Today I have to congratulate them (VAR). It took a lot of courage and bravery to stand out and give the referee the opportunity to see that move.”
“If you look at the photo, there is no question that it was a clear foul. They were very brave. Their actions deserved it. In my opinion, it is very clear. Those are the rules and we want consistency.”
Arsenal’s victory over West Ham took them five points clear of bottom rivals Manchester City at the top of the table.
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