Jamie Carragher has slammed Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka for his “idiotic” behavior during the 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.
Despite taking an early lead through a goal from Gabriel Martinelli and adding a second through Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal’s fortunes began to change as the first half wore on.
Xhaka’s late challenge on Trent Alexander-Arnold sparked a reaction from the Liverpool defender and the home crowd, which disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm and momentum.
Carragher was critical of Xhaka’s actions, which he believes were needless and could have been avoided, and called on the Swiss international to show greater discipline and responsibility on the pitch.
Shortly after the altercation between the two players – who were both yellow-carded for their involvement in the incident – Mohamed Salah tapped the ball home from close range to reduce the deficit to one goal going into half-time.
Liverpool looked rejuvenated in the second half and with a fired home crowd behind them, they came from behind to secure a point after substitute Roberto Firming levelled the scoreline in the 87th minute.
“What are you DOING?! Absolutely IDIOTIC from Xhaka!” 😬@Carra23 on that Alexander-Arnold and Xhaka CLASH! pic.twitter.com/zE4sxJAQfD
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 9, 2023
Speaking on Sky Sports after the match, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher criticised the actions of Xhaka and suggested the unnecessary challenge acted as a catalyst to spark a comeback for The Reds.
“I am not an Arsenal fan but i am angry with [Granit] Xhaka,” said Carragher. “What was he doing? The game is in your hands and you’ve got involved. Why do it? It was idiotic for an experienced player to do that at this ground.
“There was only one way Liverpool were getting back into that game and it was with the terraces. Liverpool as a team cannot compete with Arsenal, but with the energy in the stadium they can.”
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