Carragher Calls for a Rule Change After Arsenal Star’s Risky Move Against Crystal Palace

Carragher Calls for a Rule Change After Arsenal Star’s Risky Move Against Crystal Palace, While Arteta Worries About Saka’s Injury

Arsenal secured a 4-1 win against Crystal Palace, but a moment of risky play by their goalkeeper sparked debate. The Gunners were leading 1-0 after a Gabriel Jesus goal when the keeper made a dangerous pass to Thomas Partey near their own penalty area. Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr nearly capitalized on the mistake.

Sky Sports commentator Jamie Carragher expressed frustration over the error and suggested a rule change for goalkeepers. He said:

“Goalkeepers should be banned from playing straight passes. They should pass the ball wide or create an angle. Passing straight is the worst decision, and it often leads to goals for the other team. This has to stop.”

Luckily for Arsenal, the mistake didn’t cost them the match. Gabriel Jesus added another goal, Kai Havertz scored once, and Gabriel Martinelli secured a fourth in the second half. However, the game took a worrying turn for Arsenal when star winger Bukayo Saka was forced off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

Carragher commented on Saka’s injury during the game:

“He raised his hand immediately, signaling something was wrong. He gets criticized sometimes for going down, but this looks serious. It seemed like a hamstring problem when he tried to cross the ball.”

Saka previously injured his right hamstring in October while playing for England. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will be concerned about a possible recurrence.

Arsenal legend Paul Merson emphasized Saka’s importance to the team:

“If Arteta had to pick one player he can’t afford to lose, it’s Saka. He’s the first name on the teamsheet and is in a class of his own.”

Arsenal face a busy schedule ahead, traveling to play Brighton in three days before an FA Cup clash with Manchester United on January 12.