Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson claims Newcastle United are taking the fun out of football as he wades in on talk of gamesmanship. The Magpies have come under increased scrutiny for supposed timewasting, with Eddie Howe hitting back at claims stating those accusations were overblown.
Jacob Murphy poked fun at Erik Ten Hag's gamesmanship accusations at full-time, pointing to his watch following the win over the Red Devils at St. James' Park. However, Lawrenson has doubled down on those time wasting accusations after he was asked about an incident in Liverpool's draw with league leaders Arsenal, with goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale down on the floor receiving treatment.
The Gunners' shot stopper received medical attention in the first-half with Arsenal ahead at Anfield, allowing Arsenal players to head over to the touchline to receive instructions. Lawrenson was left frustrated by supposed time wasting, telling Off The Ball: "It is [planned] 100%. It's very, very frustrating. It's difficult for the referee.
