Mikel Arteta criticises Sunderland penalty decision after Arsenal win

Mikel Arteta expressed his anger regarding the penalty awarded to Sunderland during Arsenal's 2-0 victory at the Stadium of Light. The penalty was given in the 54th minute when referee John Brooks ruled that Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa had held Sunderland's Dan Ballard. Despite the decision being confirmed by VAR, Arteta deemed the call "unacceptable" and questioned the reasoning behind it.

The Premier League Match Centre provided details of the VAR review, which included a conversation between Brooks and the VAR official. Brooks stated that Konsa was "all over him at the near post facing the wrong way," while the VAR confirmed the foul as a holding offence, thereby upholding the penalty decision. David Raya ultimately saved the penalty taken by Enzo Le Fee, preserving Arsenal's lead.

In his post-match press conference, Arteta lamented the need to discuss such a contentious decision after what he described as a beautiful game. He praised Sunderland for their organisation and performance but was frustrated that the penalty incident overshadowed the match. Arteta stated that such decisions could significantly impact the season and potentially the championship race.

Arteta's displeasure did not end with the press conference. In an interview with TNT Sports, he reiterated his stance, labelling the incident a "judo roll" and insisted that it should not have been considered a penalty in any context. He expressed sadness that the focus was shifted from the quality of the match to a controversial refereeing decision, emphasising the importance of consistency in officiating at this level.

via Sky Sports