Kevin Campbell says the tackle from Spain and Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, on Arsenal and Norway captain Martin Odegaard during the international break was ‘terrible’.
When Rodri went in on Martin Odegaard during Spain’s 3-0 win over Norway, it’s fair to say that the Arsenal fans weren’t happy at all.
It was an aggressive tackle from the defensive-minded player on Arsenal’s £30 million man (Sky Sports), with the on-field referee seeing no issue and waving play on.
Odegaard was clutching his leg for a period of time and appealing to the referee to take some action, but nothing happened. No yellow card. And no penalty.
Given the Premier League title battle between Arsenal and Manchester City, then it’s obvious that challenge was going to make the headlines and be a talking point among fans.
And Highbury legend Kevin Campbell was one to criticise Rodri’s actions, including the lack of action from the powers that be, as he told the Highbury Squad.
“It was a terrible tackle,” said Campbell. “That’s the problem (not even a yellow or even a penalty). I know Spain and Norway. Dadada dada.
“But Rodri, the least he should have got is a yellow card. And where was the penalty? That should have been a penalty. Where was the penalty?
“You know what, the universe has a fine way of dealing with these things. Let me just say that.”
THE FINAL RUN-IN
That moment is going to be remembered by the Arsenal fans, no doubt, ahead of their meeting next month at the Etihad, but it’s one the players can take to the pitch.
They are the ones who need to remain level-headed and calm because the pressure of this title battle is going to test the best of the best during these next few weeks.
Manchester City have been here many times before, but Arsenal will be very keen to boot them off the top and tell the footballing world that a new sheriff is in town.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
