'Freedom of speech' will improve refs

‘Freedom of speech’ will improve refs – Arsenal boss Arteta،

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said “freedom of expression” was crucial to improving the standard of refereeing in football and confirmed he had responded to an accusation from the Football Association (FA ) following his outburst after the defeat against Newcastle United earlier this month.

Arteta had branded VAR’s decision not to rule out Anthony Gordon’s goal in Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat at Newcastle as “embarrassing” and a “disgrace”, leading the FA to respond by accusing officially Spanish.

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He could face a sideline ban for his comments, however, during a press conference on Friday Arteta said the freedom to speak openly about refereeing decisions was essential to improving the sport.

“I think it’s good that we communicate,” Arteta said.

“We want to improve the game, all of us: referees, managers, sports directors, officials, you guys [the media]. We all want a better game, and to have a better game we must have freedom of expression, in a respectful and constructive manner. We need to promote that, and if you don’t, you won’t improve.

“It’s good that they [PGMOL] speak in front of the media and explain the situation. I think this brings clarity. »

Asked if he would change the way he speaks about referees in the future, Arteta said he would continue to be himself.

“I think you have to be yourself. As a leader, you have to be authentic. You can’t be someone you’re not, and that’s what I am,” he said. he adds.

Arsenal are third in the Premier League, one point behind leaders Manchester City, and will face Brentford on Saturday.

Arteta has confirmed goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale will make his first Premier League start since September, with David Raya unavailable to face his parent club due to the terms of his loan.

The Arsenal boss added that he hoped midfielder Martin Ødegaard would be available after suffering a concussion and hip injury, while striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention to play due to injury. ‘concerns over hamstring injury.