Martin Keown has criticized Myles Lewis-Skelly’s decision-making after the youngster gave away a crucial penalty in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Everton.
Young Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly was the center of attention during a thrilling Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton at Goodison Park following a controversial Everton penalty call that resulted in Everton’s equalizer. Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown did not hold back in his critique of the incident, questioning both the officiating and Lewis-Skelly’s decision-making.
The match began with Arsenal taking the lead through Leandro Trossard’s emphatic strike. However, the tide turned early in the second half when Lewis-Skelly was penalized for a challenge on Everton’s Jack Harrison inside the box. Despite replays showing minimal contact, referee Darren England awarded the penalty, and VAR upheld the decision. Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye converted the spot-kick, leveling the score at 1-1.
Keown, speaking on TNT Sports, expressed his disbelief at the penalty decision, describing it as “very soft” and questioning the level of contact between Lewis-Skelly and Harrison. He stated, “Initially, Myles Lewis-Skelly doesn’t really get the flight of the ball and he’s trying to get his body in the way. But I don’t believe there’s enough contact there for a penalty.”
While critical of the officiating, Keown also pointed out that Lewis-Skelly could have approached the situation differently. He suggested that the defender should have focused on clearing the ball rather than engaging in a physical battle with Harrison. “There are occasions where you just have to go towards the ball. That will be one of those where he’ll look back and go, ‘Maybe I should have just tried to clear it,’” Keown added.
The match ended in a draw, leaving Arsenal at risk of falling further behind league leaders Liverpool. The controversial Everton penalty incident has sparked debates among fans and pundits alike, with many questioning the consistency of refereeing decisions in the Premier League.
Keown’s comments highlight the challenges faced by young players like Lewis-Skelly as they navigate the pressures of top-flight football. While the defender’s intent may not have been malicious, the incident serves as a learning moment for him and a reminder of the fine margins that can define a game.
For Arsenal, the focus now shifts to their upcoming Champions League clash against Real Madrid, where they will look to bounce back from this setback and keep their season on track.
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