Arteta Defends Message to 16-Year-Old Dowman After Red Card in 4-3 Cup Exit
Updated
Updated · Sky Sports · Oct 28
Arteta Defends Message to 16-Year-Old Dowman After Red Card in 4-3 Cup Exit
3 articles · Updated · Sky Sports · Oct 28
Summary
Arteta said his words to Max Dowman as the 16-year-old left the pitch were "something that we discussed before the game" after the teenager was sent off in Arsenal's Carabao Cup loss to Fleetwood Town.
Dowman saw red for violent conduct after kicking out at Harrison Neal following a strong challenge, and Arteta said Arsenal had prepared for the match's emotional demands.
Paul Merson and Jobi McAnuff criticized Arteta's touchline reaction, arguing he should have supported Dowman more visibly rather than confronting a 16-year-old during a 1-1 game.
Fleetwood won 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Arteta saying Arsenal still created three big chances with 10 men and wasted enough opportunities to have avoided a shootout.