Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta claimed “anyone that has played football” would agree it was the correct decision to disallow Callum Wilson’s late goal for West Ham last weekend.
The goal, that would have given the struggling Hammers a 1-1 draw and put a serious dent in the Gunners’ title challenge, was ruled out by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for a foul by Pablo on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
Pablo’s challenge in isolation was likely a foul but it came amid widespread grappling in the area with critics pointing out Arsenal’s tendency to do that in both penalty boxes.
The non-award prompted a wider debate around VAR and whether stricter rules should be brought in to prevent holding and pulling in the area.
Asked for his opinion on the fall-out from the game at the London Stadium, Arteta said: “The reaction from our side was extremely positive because we are so happy with the outcome and the fight with which we won the game, such an important game for us. And we had a really, really intense week with the semi-final of the Champions League.
“In relation to the reaction, I haven’t seen any of that I’m sorry. I’m very consistent on that since July, until now. I think it’s very clear. I think anyone that has played football, no discussion about the decision and I’m glad that they took the right one.”
Arteta proud of consistent Arsenal
The 1-0 win meant Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the table although it was trimmed back to two following Manchester City’s win over Crystal Palace last night.
Both teams have two games left with City in FA Cup final action this weekend and Arsenal hosting already relegated Burnley on Monday night.
Whatever happens, it has been a fine season for Arsenal, who have the chance to add to their possible Premier League success when they face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final in Budapest on May 30.
Asked what had pleased him most over a gruelling nine months, Arteta said: “Probably the capacity to adapt to very demanding circumstances and still perform and win the amount of games that we’ve won.
“The fact that we’ve been at the top for a long time shows the level of consistency and how well the team has done to stay there in this league. It’s where we are. More than ever we want to finish in that position and that’s what we’re trying to do.”
Defensive issues for Arsenal ahead of Burnley game
Arsenal have a few defensive concerns with England international Ben White this week ruled out for the rest of the season – and most likely the World Cup – and doubts surrounding Jurrien Timber’s availability for the coming games, but Arteta insists the mood in the camp is positive.
He added: ”The team is really present. It’s live in the moment. It’s emotionally, a really good state. The energy level is the right one.
“We have most players available now – okay, we lost Ben [White] the other day, but the others are coming back as well. And everybody feels enthusiastic and positive about the way we can finish the season.”
The right-back slot is an issue for Arsenal with White and Timber both sidelined. Cristhian Mosquera is likely to fill that berth against the Clarets and Arteta is eager for Timber to return as soon as possible.
“He has progressed a little bit in the last few days,” said the Spaniard. “He’s feeling better. We’re going to try and get him fit and available as quick as possible, but let’s see.
“He’s such an important player for us and he’s doing everything he can to help the team in any capacity. His leadership, his quality and how much the team needs him. He’s doing everything he can.”
There is also a doubt around left-back Riccardo Calafiori with Arteta saying they would have to “wait and see” on the Italian.
