By Salma El-Sakka
Former Arsenal player and pundit Paul Merson has criticized manager Mikel Arteta for his harsh reaction to 16-year-old Max Dowman after the teenager was sent off during Arsenal's Carabao Cup defeat to Fleetwood Town.
Dowman sent off in Carabao Cup upset
Dowman received a straight red card in the latter stages of the match after kicking out following a heavy challenge from Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal. The League Two side held Arsenal to a 1-1 draw before winning on penalties, eliminating the Premier League champions.
Merson: 'He's a kid'
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said Arteta's public reprimand of Dowman as he left the pitch was inappropriate given the player's age. "You have to remember he is 16 years of age - he's a kid," Merson said. "If that's Viktor Gyokeres, he isn't doing that. If it's an experienced international, I don't think he does that."
McAnuff also critical
Fellow pundit Jobi McAnuff expressed similar surprise at Arteta's stern words, noting Dowman's frustration after a difficult night and the provocation of the challenge. "I just felt the reaction, I didn't like it at all. He's obviously given him a little bit going down the tunnel," McAnuff said.
Three-match suspension
Dowman will now miss Arsenal's next three games through suspension.
