Angry Arsenal legend wants to join independent panel after refs ‘got it wrong’ at Newcastle
Former Arsenal star Martin Keown expresses a strong desire to secure a role on the Independent Key Match Incidents Panel in the Premier League.
This follows the contentious decision to permit Newcastle’s winning goal in their recent 1-0 triumph over Arsenal.
VAR reviewed whether the ball crossed the boundary, if Joelinton committed a foul against Gabriel, and if Anthony Gordon was offside before scoring.
Despite referee Stuart Attwell granting the goal and an independent panel affirming the accuracy of the decision at St. James’ Park, former Arsenal ‘Invincible’ and talkSPORT pundit Keown opposes the ruling.
He has expressed his desire to become a part of the panel, stating this on White and Jordan: They’re looking at it in the cold light of day almost, they’re getting a second chance to get this right and when they get it wrong, it’s a double hit.”
Host Jim White replied: “But they didn’t get it wrong.”
A fuming Keown said: “In my opinion they got it wrong, and I’m not alone in the opinion by the way.”
White suggested that Keown is in the minority with his perspective. However, the ex-defender countered: “No I don’t think so. To suit your narrative that’s what you’re throwing at me.
“Maybe I should sit in on the panel… I don’t think I would be allowed anywhere near it.”
White inquired if there is a contact number available for the Premier League’s Independent Key Match Incidents Panel.
“Let’s do it,” added Keown and when questioned if he was serious, he stated: “I’d love to go along but, Jim, I wouldn’t get that opportunity.
“I might bring some common sense to the table, but that’s not going to happen, is it?”
The panel, established at the start of the previous season for impartial decision-making, consists of five members. Among them, three are former players and/or coaches, and both the PGMOL and the Premier League each appoint a representative.
Despite the seasoned individuals on the panel, Keown clarified why he disagrees with their decision on the Newcastle goal, stating, “This is obviously subjective, even though it goes to VAR.
“I don’t agree with the panel. I would prefer actually, if we’re going to name names, I would prefer to look at three former top referees who have all looked at this incident very closely.
“Firstly we look at Chris Foy, he said for him, it was a foul. Dermot Gallagher, top referee, former referee, said it was a foul. Mark Clattenburg, said it was a foul.
“So we can all aim at the evidence, I don’t even know who the panel is made up of, I’m not sure it can be particularly independent, but I simply don’t agree.”
Angry Arsenal legend wants to join independent panel after refs ‘got it wrong’ at Newcastle