Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has expressed his belief that Brentford captain Christian Norgaard “could have broken my leg” with the tackle he executed on the Arsenal forward during the first half of their Premier League encounter, insisting the midfielder should have received a red card for what he described as a “nasty” challenge.
Norgaard faced significant criticism after bringing down Martinelli with a reckless lunge, much to the ire of the Emirates Stadium crowd.
The incident took place in the 28th minute when Norgaard intercepted Martinelli’s attempt to initiate a counter-attack.
Referee Simon Hooper issued a yellow card to Norgaard, with VAR deciding not to overturn the decision.
“I haven’t watched it again, but in that moment, if my foot had been on the ground, he could have broken my leg,” Martinelli remarked to Sky Sports following the 1-1 draw.
“He (Norgaard) claimed it wasn’t intentional. I believe him, but still, he could have seriously injured me. In my opinion, it warranted a red card. I need to see it again to be sure, but it looked nasty to me.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacted passionately from the sidelines after the incident, stating, “I think my reaction says it all,” while Brentford’s manager Thomas Frank countered, “That’s his view. I thought it was a strong yellow card.”
The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with Yoane Wissa equalising after Thomas Partey had given Arsenal the lead.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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