Arsenal recorded a huge win over London rivals West Ham, but have been warned about the title race ahead by former Manchester United captain Roy Keane.
The Gunners have placed themselves firmly in the conversation for the Premier League title following a victory over Liverpool. Momentum would have to continue if they were to make that win count in the end though.
That’s where the obstacle of West Ham stood in the way, with the Hammers having a recent record of halting Arsenal. Mikel Arteta‘s team stood up to that test though, opening the scoring from a William Saliba header.
Quickfire goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes and Leandro Trossard gave the side a four-goal lead at the break. The north London outfit didn’t let up though, as Saka scored his second before Declan Rice rounded up the goals against his former side.
It means Arsenal are still only two points away from top spot, with their goal difference given a major boost too. There was, however, a keen eye on the celebrations on display from the Gunners following a week of discussion surrounding the topic.
Roy Keane’s Arsenal title warning
Discussing Arsenal’s 6-0 win over West Ham, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane told Sky Sports: “It happens but you can’t get carried away but that’s the nature of the beast. Teams get excited and get giddy, we see it every week now.
“Obviously we saw Arsenal get criticized last week, but we see teams every week now [celebrate] when they get a big result.
“Yes, celebrate and get photographs, but as we know, there’s a long way to go in that league challenge and you can’t get too carried away. We know what football does to you, it kicks you in the teeth.”
It comes as a slight warning to Arsenal that, while they can celebrate, there will be a long way to go in the title race before it’s over.
Jamie Carragher on Arsenal celebrations
The heated debate surrounding celebrations from Arsenal was sparked by former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher. Club captain Martin Odegaard was seen taking photographs of the club photographer, following the side’s win over the Reds, which brought about an angry reaction.
“Just get down the tunnel, you’ve won a game,” Carragher said on Sky Sports as the events unfolded. “It’s three points, you’ve been brilliant, you are back in the title race, get back down the tunnel. I am serious, honestly.”
Mikel Arteta celebration response
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has defended the stance surrounding celebrations, claiming he loves the passion surrounding them. He said in his pre-West Ham press conference, via the Mirror: “No because they told me today. I didn’t know anything about it [the celebration outrage].
“No but I love it. I’ve seen managers at the Emirates away on their knees, personally I love it because it brings a passion to the game. When it’s done in a natural and unique way.”
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