Ian Wright gives verdict on two big calls that went Arsenal's way v Bournemouth

Ian Wright admits AFC Bournemouth’s late goal should have stood (Picture: Getty)

Ian Wright has shared his opinion on the two big calls that went Arsenal’s way in their 3-0 Premier League win over AFC Bournemouth on Saturday.

Arsenal were controversially awarded a penalty despite Kai Havertz appearing to drag his foot to initiate contact with Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers.

That saw the Gunners take the lead as Bukayo Saka slotted home his spot kick, while later in the match, the Cherries were denied what looked like a clear goal.

Antoine Semenyo put the ball in the net for the visitors – but referee David Coote blew his whistle – deciding that Dominic Solanke had fouled David Raya.

It looked very soft while Gabriel Magalhaes appeared to pull back Philip Billing inside the box at the same time, with Bournemouth not given a goal or penalty.

VAR checked the incidents but they went Arsenal’s way, which left Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola understandably furious in his post-match interview.

Arsenal legend Wright has now shared his thoughts on the two decisions and posted on X: ‘Didn’t think it was a penalty [for the alleged foul on Havertz]. Bournemouth’s goal should have stood. [But] job done, three points.’

Bournemouth players were left furious over their disallowed goal (Picture: Getty)

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean, watching the match for Sky Sports, has also given his verdict and felt that Arsenal were incredibly fortunate.

‘I do not think [the first decision] it is a penalty, Havertz has just dragged his leg on the floor, but it will not get overturned,’ Dean said.

‘There is a possible foul on the goalkeeper [for the second decision, but] it is either a penalty or a goal, very minimal contact. The pull back [Magalhaes on Billing] happens first, it is clear, but they have overlooked it.’

Mikel Arteta admitted that he turned down the opportunity to watch the two decisions back so that he could avoid difficult questions about it after the match.

‘The honest answer is I haven’t seen any of the incidents because I knew you were going to ask me,’ Arteta said.

‘They said do you want to see it and I said no so I can give you an honest answer!’

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