Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has criticised Mikel Arteta’s reaction to Max Dowman’s red card against Fleetwood Town, suggesting the manager would have treated a senior player differently.
The 16-year-old was dismissed during Tuesday’s shock Carabao Cup fourth-round defeat after appearing to kick out at Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal following a challenge.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta appeared visibly frustrated as Dowman left the pitch, with the incident attracting considerable attention after the match.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson questioned whether Arteta would have reacted similarly had an experienced player been involved.
“If that’s Gyokeres, Arteta ain’t doing that,” Merson said. “If it was Gyokeres, who’s an experienced international, I personally don’t think he does that, but he does that to a 16-year-old kid.”
Merson also disagreed with the decision to dismiss Dowman, arguing that the teenager’s reaction had been exaggerated by the surrounding players.
He described Neal’s initial challenge as an old-fashioned tackle in which the Fleetwood midfielder won the ball before following through.
“I don’t think it’s as bad as what everybody says,” Merson explained. “I think the reaction of the players has sort of made his decision.”
The former England international added that Dowman’s movement did not warrant a sending-off, although he acknowledged that the youngster had retaliated.
“It wasn’t a red card in my opinion. I don’t think it should have been given,” he said.
Nevertheless, Merson warned that Dowman must learn to manage his frustration as opponents increasingly target him.
He believes the teenager’s growing reputation will make physical challenges a regular feature of his career.
“The kid’s a superstar already at 16 years of age,” Merson said.
“Everybody has bad games. When you have bad games, you got to make sure it doesn’t affect the team as well and you don’t get sent off.”
Arsenal have appealed Dowman’s dismissal, which could otherwise result in a three-match domestic suspension.
Merson was also asked whether Arsenal’s attacking performances should concern supporters following their elimination by League Two opposition.
Despite expecting a more entertaining approach after last season’s Premier League triumph, he dismissed suggestions that Arteta’s side were experiencing a serious creative problem.
He suggested the defeat to Brighton earlier this season had encouraged Arsenal to adopt a more cautious approach.
However, Merson pointed to their subsequent Premier League victories as evidence that the strategy remained effective.
“So, I don’t think there’s any alarm,” he concluded.
Arsenal will look to respond when they visit Liverpool on Sunday.