IAN WRIGHT fumed that Prem refs are the “worst in Europe” after Brighton were awarded a controversial penalty against Arsenal.
William Saliba was judged to have fouled Joao Pedro after he mistimed a header and caught the Seagulls striker.
The call went to VAR, which stuck by referee Anthony Taylor’s decision.
But Wright disagreed with the awarding of a penalty and fumed that it was given.
The Arsenal icon said on Optus Sport: “I don’t know what to believe anymore. This is ridiculous. We have the worst officials in Europe.”
Mikel Arteta was equally as bemused as he made his feelings clear post-match.
He told Sky Sports: “I have never seen something like this in my life.
“I am really disappointed. He touches the ball as well!”
Fans argued over whether the correct decision was made as the Premier League released a statement on the incident.
It read: “The referee’s call of penalty for a foul by Saliba on Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was sufficient contact for a penalty.”
The decision proved crucial as Pedro converted the penalty to equalise, with the match ending 1-1.
The Gunners dropped yet more points in the title race and are now five points behind Liverpool having played two games more.
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