Arsenal fans were delighted to witness Gary Neville`s criticism of their team being firmly countered live on television.
Mikel Arteta`s squad drew 1-1 with Brentford on Saturday, widening the gap behind Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
Arsenal is likely heading for a third consecutive second-place finish this season.
Neville voiced his concern that Arsenal appeared to be regressing this season, despite a significant 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final first leg.
Speaking on NBC Sports, Neville stated, “Arsenal’s league form has been disappointing. If Manchester City weren`t going to win the league, Arsenal should have been ready to capitalize. But they aren`t even close to Liverpool. This season feels like a step backward for Arsenal in terms of their Premier League title ambitions and recruitment. They didn`t adequately address the lack of depth at centre-forward, particularly after Havertz`s injury. Odegaard`s performance has also declined. Losing Edu has also had an impact. Overall, it’s been a letdown.”
However, Robbie Mustoe, a former player for Middlesbrough, Oxford United, and Sheffield Wednesday, strongly disagreed with Neville`s viewpoint.
Mustoe defended Arsenal, arguing that injuries to key players significantly impacted their title challenge. He conceded that Arsenal needs to sign a striker to truly compete for the title.
Mustoe elaborated, “I still anticipate they will finish second for the third year in a row. We must consider the impact of injuries to crucial players at various points this season. It`s understood that strengthening the forward line is the final and most critical step in team building. I find it difficult to heavily criticize the team given the circumstances. Liverpool has been fortunate with fewer injuries, and injuries significantly affect consistency. While Arsenal needs another striker, I disagree that they have regressed.”
Arsenal supporters online enthusiastically supported Mustoe’s defense against Neville’s criticisms.
One fan commented, “Mustoe shutting down Neville is the highlight of my day.”
Another added, “This is easily the best thing I`ve seen all Sunday.”
A fan pointed out, “Neville predicted Arsenal would win the league at the season`s start.”
Another questioned, “How have we regressed when we are on the verge of the Champions League semi-finals?”
