Carragher suggested that goalkeepers should be banned from forward passes.
Carragher suggested that goalkeepers should be banned from forward passes.
Pundit Jamie Carragher remarked that goalkeepers should be banned from making straight passes after Arsenal's 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League. The former Liverpool man said that it is an extremely risky pass that can lead to goals for the opponents.
An incident of note occurred early in the first half with the Gunners up 1-0 at Selhurst Park on Saturday. David Raya's straight ball to Thomas Partey in the middle of the park was picked up by the Eagles' Ismaila Sarr. The attacker tried to set up Jean-Philippe Mateta with a great chance but the latter was thwarted by the Spaniard who made a great save.
Carragher said (via commentary on Sky Sports):
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"Goalkeepers should be banned from playing straight balls. They should have to play it out wide, put an angle on it.
“This is the worst passing football – a goalkeeper who plays a straight pass. The amount of goals you see conceded in the Premier League like this. It has to stop.”
With more teams opting to play out from the back, there has become an increased need for shot-stoppers with ability on the ball. Alongside Raya, Manchester City's Ederson, Liverpool's Alisson, and Aston Villa's Emi Martinez have all been touted to be strong in this department. However, this has led to other teams trying it without having the right personnel to do so.
Arsenal put it behind and geared past their London rivals comfortably for the second time in a week. A brace from Gabriel Jesus along with goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Declan Rice handed the Gunners a big win.
They find themselves three points off Liverpool at the top of the league table having played two games more.
Mikel Arteta provides worrying update as Arsenal star exits clash with hamstring injury
Saka left the game in the first half.
Saka left the game in the first half.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta stated that star attacker Bukayo Saka's injury was a cause of concern for the side. This comes after the winger had to be taken off in the first half of the side's 5-1 win over Crystal Palace.
He said after the game (via Fabrizio Romano on Twitter):
“We are pretty worried about Saka’s injury.”
“He grabbed his hamstring and couldn’t continue. He will have to be assessed but we are pretty worried, yes.”
After the 20-minute mark, Saka attempted a cross from the byline on the right flank and pulled up immediately. He seemed to be in a lot of discomfort, asking for a change while holding his hamstring and was eventually replaced by Leandro Trossard after 24 minutes.
The loss of the 23-year-old will be massive for Arsenal. He has been a key part of their attack this season, especially with his delivery from set-pieces. Saka has collected five goals and 10 assists in 16 league games.