Ian Wright acknowledged that Kai Havertz should have received a second yellow card before netting the decisive goal for Arsenal against Brentford but expressed relief that he wasn’t penalized.
The German forward’s header in the 86th minute secured a crucial 2-1 victory for the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium, propelling them to the top of the Premier League table. However, the win was not devoid of controversy, as Havertz had previously been booked for an elbow on Kristoffer Ajer, a foul that could have warranted a second yellow card.
Havertz’s later tumble in the box, in close proximity to Nathan Collins, raised eyebrows, with Brentford manager Thomas Frank arguing that the forward should have been cautioned for simulation.
Frank expressed his frustration, citing the missed opportunity for the officials to take action against Havertz for what he deemed a clear dive. The Brentford boss emphasized that the players were rightfully aggrieved by the decision, believing that Havertz’s actions warranted a second yellow card, which would have left Arsenal with 10 men.
Ian Wright echoed Frank’s sentiments, questioning why the assistant referee failed to identify Havertz’s apparent dive during the match. Wright, like many observers, found the lack of disciplinary action puzzling given the clarity of the situation.
