21 August 2023 , 21:58
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Mikel Arteta said the new clampdown on timewasting in the Premier League means it is almost guaranteed that multiple players will be sent off every week.
Takehiro Tomiyasu was shown two yellow cards in quick succession during the Gunners' trip to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The first, which occurred on the hour mark, was for waiting too long to take a thrown in, before the Japan international was given a second booking for fouling Jordan Ayew seven minutes later.
Arteta and the Arsenal players looked perplexed as the Gunners were handed their first red card in the Premier League since Rob Holding's dismissal in the 3-0 defeat at Tottenham in May 2022. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Arsenal managed to hold out to secure a 1-0 victory.
It means the Gunners have started the season with six points from six after beating Nottingham Forest on the opening weekend. After the win at Palace, Arteta was asked about Tomiyasu's red card but and sarcastically told Sky Sports: "I'm a really open person, I understand everything."
He later added in his press conference: "It's going to be very difficult for us [managers], I guarantee you we will be playing with 10, or nine or even eight. Because depending on where we put the standards we will have eight vs eight. It will be very entertaining."
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Meanwhile, many Arsenal fans were not convinced on social media. One said: "Hard fought win at Palace tonight. It's not an easy place to go and get 3 points. Well done Arsenal for keeping calm. Bad luck to Tomiyasu for being sent off. That was harsh."
Another added: "David Coote booked Tomiyasu for taking EIGHT SECONDS to take a throw in... Absolute clown." A third posted: "Tomiyasu held the ball for only 8 seconds before getting booked for time-wasting... @FA_PGMOL needs to explain this #CRYARS."
Did Takehiro Tomiyasu deserve to be sent off? Let us know in the comments below!
Mikel Arteta warned that there will be multiple red cards every week with the new clampdown on timewastingAs for the match itself, Arsenal started brightly and had the first clear-cut chance to open the opening through Eddie Nketiah. Declan Rice's inch-perfect pass allowed the forward to go through on goal with Sam Johnstone to beat, but he could not find the target.
And it took the Gunners until the start of the second-half to create the next excellent opportunity - which came from the penalty spot after Eddie Nketiah was tripped. Martin Odegaard stepped up and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sending Johnstone the wrong way.
The Gunners showed grit and determination to secure a precious three points as they moved next to Manchester City and Brighton at the top of the Premier League. They remain the only three sides to win both of their first two matches, with Liverpool, Brentford, Tottenham and West Ham still unbeaten.