Neville explodes over Emirates flashpoint
According to talkSPORT, the clash sparked immediate anger among Liverpool players and reignited debate over player conduct and refereeing decisions during high-pressure Premier League matches.
Late incident ignites tempers
The match was drifting toward a quiet conclusion when Liverpool defender Conor Bradley went down injured near the touchline in the closing minutes. As Liverpool’s medical staff moved onto the pitch, Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli attempted to usher Bradley toward the sideline.
That gesture prompted a swift reaction from several Liverpool players, with Ibrahima Konate among those confronting Martinelli. The situation escalated briefly before officials and teammates intervened to restore order.
Bradley was eventually stretchered off and replaced by Joe Gomez. Referee Anthony Taylor issued yellow cards to both Martinelli and Konate for their roles in the confrontation.
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Neville and Keane condemn decision
On Sky Sports, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville criticised both Martinelli’s actions and the referee’s response. “You can't push him off the pitch. You cannot do that. That is so poor. I think an apology is needed,” Neville said during the broadcast.
As Bradley was taken away, Neville added that he was “fuming” and later described Martinelli as an “idiot,” arguing the offence warranted a red card rather than a booking.
Roy Keane echoed those concerns, saying he found the incident unacceptable and describing Martinelli’s behaviour as a “disgrace,” while expressing hope that an apology would follow.
Arteta offers defence
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta took a different view after the match, insisting there was no malicious intent behind his player’s actions.
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“Knowing Gabi, there is zero intention,” Arteta said, according to Sky Sports. He added that he was unsure of the severity of Bradley’s injury but hoped it was not serious.
TalkSPORT reaction sharpens debate
Jason Cundy, speaking on talkSPORT’s The Sports Bar, delivered one of the strongest reactions. He labelled the episode “absolutely disgusting” and “classless,” arguing that Martinelli’s conduct amounted to two bookable offences and should have resulted in a dismissal.
Cundy also pointed to the potential seriousness of Bradley’s injury, suggesting that attempts to move an injured player off the pitch crossed an important line.
Draw keeps Arsenal in control
The controversy overshadowed a match that ended goalless despite moments of quality from both sides. Liverpool came closest in the first half when Bradley nearly capitalised on a loose clearance from goalkeeper David Raya, only to see his effort strike the underside of the crossbar.
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The draw keeps Arsenal six points clear at the top of the Premier League and maintains their unbeaten home record this season. Liverpool remain fourth, trailing the leaders by 14 points after 21 matches.
Sources: talkSPORT, Sky Sports
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