Michael Owen believes William Saliba can be “livid” with goalkeeper David Raya after his error led to Jean-Philippe Mateta’s equaliser in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw in opposition to Crystal Palace on Tuesday evening. With Liverpool now needing only a level in opposition to Tottenham to clinch the Premier League title, Arsenal’s hopes of securing the championship are all however over.
The match noticed Arsenal take the lead twice, first by Jakub Kiwior and later Leandro Trossard, however Palace fought again with objectives from Eberechi Eze and Mateta. The pivotal second got here when Saliba gave the ball away within the build-up to Mateta’s gorgeous chipped objective within the 83rd minute. Raya, who was caught off his line, failed to regulate his positioning in time, leaving Saliba uncovered.
Owen, talking on Premier League Productions, expressed sympathy for Saliba however was crucial of Raya’s position within the incident. “All people is aware of Raya takes large angles, however as soon as the angle closes, he must dash again to present Saliba a viable go choice,” Owen stated. “He was by no means in place to assist, and I really feel sorry for Saliba as a result of he made one mistake, however he wasn’t given the assist he wanted from his keeper. If I had been Saliba, I’d be within the dressing room screaming at Raya.”
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown echoed Owen’s frustration, highlighting how sloppy play has crept into Arsenal’s latest performances. “Saliba wants to remain alert and never change off,” Keown stated. “We noticed it in opposition to Actual Madrid and once more tonight. These lapses in focus are an indication of the crew’s sloppiness, as they attempt to coast by video games. You make errors while you’re not at 100%, and that’s costing Arsenal now.”
The outcome means Liverpool can be topped champions in the event that they safe a degree in opposition to Tottenham on Sunday, as Arsenal’s season continues to unravel within the remaining stretch.
