Arsenal’s title push was given a fortunate break against West Ham at the weekend after the Hammers’ late goal was chalked off after a controversial VAR intervention
20:04, 11 May 2026Updated 20:35, 11 May 2026
(Image: Sky Sports)
Jamie Carragher claims Arsenal‘s double standards are the reason that they “disliked” following the controversy at West Ham. The Gunners thought their title push had taken a huge blow after Callum Wilson’s late equaliser at the London Stadium.
The referee initially gave the goal but following a lengthy VAR check, the strike was ruled out for a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
The controversy comes after a season in which Arsenal have used set pieces to their advantage – both from an offensive and defensive standpoint.
And Carragher has claimed that their reputation has only been damaged, having complained at their own goals being cancelled for similar.
Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “This all started with Arsenal two or three seasons ago putting 15 players in a six yard box and the reason people are annoyed with Arsenal, and feel they’ve got away with it, is that this is a football club who push the boundaries in every area to try and gain an advantage – that’s why they are disliked.
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“The manager stands on the edge of the touchline, putting the opposition’s left wing or right back off, screaming down his ear. Gabriel going down on the floor anytime someone breaths on him.
“The goalkeeper being the first one to take the atmosphere in a stadium to another degree and what they do at set pieces. That’s why there’s this feeling ‘they do it every week, how are they getting away with it’. But that doesn’t mean this isn’t a foul.”
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta also offered his take at the decision and was full of praise for the officials for cancelling the goal.
West Ham’s late goal against Arsenal was cancelled following a VAR review(Image: Getty Images)
He said: “When I had to be critical, I have been. Today I have to congratulate them [VAR]. You needed a lot of courage and bravery to stand out and give the opportunity to the referee to have a look at the action.
“When you see the picture, there is no question that it is a clear foul. They were very brave. The action deserved that. In my opinion, it is very clear. They are the rules and we ask for consistency.”
Arsenal’s win at West Ham leaves them top of the table and five points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City.
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