Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has circled two defenders for criticism following Manchester United’s 3-1 loss at the Emirates.
The Gunners went ahead after Nuno Tavares pounced on a rebound inside three minutes following some horrendous defending from a United backline that was without Harry Maguire. Diogo Dalot failed to track the Arsenal full-back, who reacted first when David de Gea pushed the ball in his direction from a Bukayo Saka shot.
Keown was less than impressed with the Portugal defender’s efforts, critiquing his lack of anticipation and concentration in the build-up. Speaking at half-time on BT Sport, he said: "Tavares comes down in from the left-hand side and Dalot completely switches off and it is terrible defending, very lazy just swinging a foot at it.
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“Tavares just ghosts in and Dalot has got to stay with him, it is just the basics." He added: "It is about sensing danger… They are basics that you work on there and it is all about concentration."
Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah thought he had grabbed his third goal in two games when he put past De Gea just before the half-hour mark. However, it was ruled out by VAR for offside and a penalty was awarded instead due to Alex Telles hauling down Saka inside the area moments before Nketiah netted.
Saka stepped up and scored his second spot kick in two games to put his side 2-0 up after 32 minutes. Keown accused Telles of “panicking” in a desperate attempt to stop the Englishman from getting through on goal.
He added: "I think Telles is panicking because he knows that he is on the wrong side and I agree with the decision. He (Telles) nudges him (Saka) and tries to get away with it but he doesn't."
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