In a recent football match that left fans on the edge of their seats, Jamie Carragher, a renowned sports analyst and former professional footballer, has called for Arsenal's David Raya to be banned. This comes after Raya made a costly mistake during an intense game against Newcastle.
Arsenal faced a crushing defeat in the Carabao Cup semi-finals by Newcastle with an aggregate score of 4-0. This loss denied them the opportunity to play at Wembley. The Gunners were significantly off pace at St James' Park, which was evident throughout the game.
Newcastle entered this match with a 2-0 lead from their first leg. Despite this advantage, there was palpable tension among fans who feared that Arsenal might overturn their lead. However, these fears were quickly allayed as Jacob Murphy scored in the first half following excellent teamwork from Alexander Isak. Despite being ahead, Newcastle continued to push for another goal while maintaining their lead.
Turning point
The turning point came when David Raya made what many consider to be his biggest blunder yet. With Arsenal already looking shaky at the back end of defence, Raya decided to pass straight to Declan Rice amidst high pressure from Newcastle players.
Rice was caught in possession by Fabian Schar's relentless tackle which left Anthony Gordon with an easy task - slotting home and securing another goal for Newcastle. Carragher took issue with Raya's decision-making during this crucial moment and expressed his views on social media post-game.
Jamie Carragher, Liverpool legend, said:
"Keepers need to be banned from playing those passes into midfield players."
Other performances under scrutiny
Raya wasn't alone in receiving criticism after this match; Gary Neville also scrutinised centre-backs Gabriel and William Saliba’s performances. After witnessing Alexander Isak terrorise both defenders leading up to Newcastle's opening goal.
Gary Neville, Manchester United legend, said:
"It’s all about Isak. He is messing the Arsenal centre backs about. Look at him against Saliba, he (Saliba) thinks he has got in front and he pops it round the corner.
"What a strike it is, and a piece of good fortune because the pass isn’t into him and it then falls to Murphy. But he has Gabriel and Saliba on toast."
The game against Newcastle was a tough one for Arsenal, with several players coming under fire for their performances. Carragher's call for Raya to be banned has sparked a debate among sports fans and betting enthusiasts alike. Whether or not this will lead to any changes in the team's strategy or player line-up remains to be seen.
