Wright admits one Arsenal star was lucky to avoid red card against Spurs

The Gunners dropped valuable points in the north London derby at the weekend, but it could’ve been worse according to Ian Wright.

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has acknowledged that Eddie Nketiah was fortunate to escape a red card during Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

In a highly competitive Premier League encounter, Arsenal took a 2-2 draw. Two crucial goals from Spurs captain Son Heung-min canceled out Cristian Romero’s own goal and a penalty from Bukayo Saka.

Yet, for Wright, one potential game-changing moment came when Nketiah made a dangerous challenge on Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Wright stated, “I think it was one where it is fortunate, simply because the ball is gone. He was totally committed. I don’t know if it was frustration, because of how the game was going for him.”

Nketiah’s performance in the derby had been a mixed bag. Wright pointed out that the striker had only managed one shot on target throughout the match. He speculated that frustration might have played a role in his actions.

Wright, who is Arsenal’s second-highest scorer in history with 185 goals, also suggested his former club needs to become more clinical in front of goal.

The Gunners’ next challenge will be in the Carabao Cup against Brentford on Wednesday. They will be looking to bounce back by sealing a spot in the fourth round.

🗣️ “If he got a red card there, I don’t think he can argue. He’s been really, really lucky.”

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher says Eddie Nketiah could have well been sent off against Tottenham. 🟥 pic.twitter.com/J4veQYrFPI

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) September 25, 2023