Arsenal fans have taken to Twitter to react after the Premier League announced Chris Kavanagh would officiate Sunday’s clash with Tottenham.
What’s the story?
Well, the 36-year-old has been entrusted to oversee proceedings in N17 this weekend, and some Arsenal fans are not happy about it.
Kavanagh will be the man in the spotlight, with John Brooks on VAR duty as the Gunners look to complete the double over Spurs.
So, why are the Arsenal supporters worried about Kavanagh?
Well, Kavanagh became an unpopular man among Arsenal fans when he oversaw Aston Villa’s 1-0 win over Mikel Arteta’s men at Villa Park last season.
The official – who has also refereed in the Championship this season – failed to spot Emiliano Martinez appearing to haul down Alexandre Lacazette inside the box.
Kavanagh also decided not to send Ezri Konsa off for fouling Bukayo Saka when he was through on goal at the Holte End.
After full-time, Arteta was very animated when approaching Kavanagh, clearly infuriated.
Arsenal can’t let this get in their heads against Tottenham
Referees have a difficult job, although with the help of VAR Arsenal fans would say there are no excuses for the officials’ display in the Midlands last season.
However, Arteta must ensure his side forget about that and focus on defeating their north London rivals.
Arsenal are now out of the FA Cup and, with no European football, it’s time for the Gunners to mount a serious charge for the Champions League in the second half of the campaign.
That starts on Sunday, and if anyone in red and white feels Kavanagh owes them something, Arteta has to change that mindset. Arsenal must focus on what they can control.
For now, let’s see what the Arsenal fans on Twitter have been saying about Kavanagh..
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