Ex-Fifa official praises ‘wonderful’ incident as under-the-radar Saka footage emerges from Arsenal
Keith Hackett has heaped praise on Graeme Scott for the “wonderful advantage” he played as Arsenal scored their first goal in the 5-0 win over Norwich City on Sunday (26 December).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee claimed Scott’s advantage that led to Bukayo Saka’s goal was “understated” but the sign of an experienced official.
Keiran Tierney had been fouled after playing the ball to Gabriel Martinelli as he won the ball back for Arsenal.
Scott had the whistle in his mouth to blow for a free-kick but let the move develop.
Martinelli passed it to Martin Odegaard who teed up Saka who scored his side’s opening goal in their 5-0 rout.
He added a second in the second half to bring his tally to five in the Premier League this season in his 19th appearance.
Tierney, Emile Smith Rowe and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty completed the scoring for the Gunners at Carrow Road.
“Graham Scott played a wonderful advantage,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“It was understated but it is the sign of an experienced referee who can actually just hold off a little bit and wait before he penalises too quickly.
“Yes, good piece of refereeing from him.”
The victory in Norfolk was Arsenal’s fifth consecutive win in all competitions.
Mikel Arteta’s side are fourth in the Premier League and six points above fifth-place Tottenham.
However, their north London rivals have three games in hand due to postponements earlier this month because of the weather and covid.
In other news, a senior Arsenal star’s transfer is a ‘done deal’ after the latest update.