Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka makes 5-word claim about north London derby with Tottenham after Declan Rice suspension
Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka said that the side will be ready for the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur when the players return following the September international break. The Gunners drew 1-1 at home to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, in their third Premier League outing of the season.
The north London outfit took the lead through Kai Havertz in the 38th minute. Declan Rice was handed a yellow card late around the half-time mark for a foul on Joel Veltman. However, what made headlines was Rice's second booking four minutes later, due to which the Englishman was sent off for the first time.
Rice was involved in yet another duel with Veltman. The 25-year-old nudged the ball away from Veltman's reach as the Dutch defender tried to take a quick free-kick. As a result, Rice was struck by Veltman's effort and went down.
Interestingly, the referee saw Rice's attempt to nudge the ball away as delaying the restart of the game and sent off the midfielder. He will now miss the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on September 15.
While speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Saka said that Rice was an instrumental player for the team. He added that the Gunners will be ready for Spurs when the players return from international action.
"We’ll be ready for them."
Arsenal forward Saka urges consistency from match officials following Declan Rice red card row
The Englishman wasn't impressed with officials following the row that erupted following the referee's call.
Saka said that Joao Pedro, who scored Brighton's equaliser, had kicked the ball away in the first half but didn't receive a booking, while Rice was issued a second yellow for the slightest of touches.
The Arsenal forward has asked for consistency from match officials over such calls, while speaking to TNT Sports:
"I thought it was a bit harsh for us. We just want some consistency. Joao Pedro booted the ball halfway across the pitch in the first half and got nothing for it, and Dec got the slightest touch and was sent off."
"It is what it is. I dont want to put the whole game on the referee, as we still had chances to win it. It has been a good start. Today is a disappointment, but it is a long season."
Arsenal are second in the Premier League table, with seven points from three games, a point behind Brighton.