By Frank McAvennie

28th Sep, 2023 | 4:19pm

Pundit drops 'embarrassing' Arsenal claim as Cristian Romero footage re-analysed

The decision to award Arsenal a penalty for Cristian Romero’s handball was “embarrassing”.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie suggested officials should be able to tell by player reactions whether or not a penalty should be awarded.

As shown on Sky Sports (24 September), the Gunners were awarded a penalty just minutes into the second half after Ben White’s shot appeared to strike the arm of Romero from incredibly close range.

After a lengthy VAR check, referee Robert Jones opted to award the penalty which Bukayo Saka converted to give Mikel Arteta’s side a 2-1 lead.

Heung-min Son’s 55th minute equaliser rescued a point for Tottenham after what they felt was a harsh decision.

As quoted by the Evening Standard (25 September), Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou questioned the decision and claimed he has “no idea” what the handball rule is after conceding the penalty.

McAvennie also could not understand why Romero was punished for the handball.

“I was confused,” he told Football Insider.

“I had thought it hit the Arsenal player’s hand first. It took them forever to decide and give the penalty as well but where is he supposed to put his hands? It is just embarrassing.

“You can always tell when players claim for a penalty. You can tell, when one or two do it is not a penalty but when they all do it it is.“

In other news, Scotland international is ‘happy’ at Brentford after Man United and Arsenal transfer links.