Bukayo Saka: Campbell issues two-word verdict as Arsenal controversy analysed
Kevin Campbell has poured cold water on the notion Arsenal should have been awarded a penalty at Crystal Palace.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gunners and Everton striker said the incident involving Bukayo Saka and Cheikhou Kouyate was no more than a “coming together”.
Saka went down under pressure from Kouyate in the first half of Arsenal’s 3-0 loss at Selhurst Park on Monday night.
Referee Paul Tierney saw no wrongdoing from the Eagles defender and waved played on.
VAR official Jarred Gillett adjudged there to have been no clear and obvious error made so the decision stood.
When asked by Football Insider if Saka should have been awarded a penalty, Campbell issued a two-word verdict: “No chance.
“It was not a penalty. The fans should not spend too much time on it. It was never a penalty.
“There was a little push in there but it was bodies coming together rather than a foul. In my eyes, it was not enough for a penalty.
“They can’t look for excuses. Palace were the better team on the night. It’s as simple as that.”
Speaking after the loss, Arteta said: “Congratulations first of all to Crystal Palace for winning the match and the way they performed, but we weren’t at the races today especially in the first half.
“Overall it is unacceptable, we put our hands up, apologise, regroup. Tomorrow is a new day and a new opportunity to prepare the group against Brighton.”
In other news, it can be revealed West Ham have registered their interest in signing an Arsenal star after twist.