Arteta praises referee and VAR for decision to send off Fabio Vieira

Coach Mikel Arteta believes that referee Michael Oliver and the VAR team were correct in giving a red card to Fabio Vieira at the end of the 3-1 win over Burnley in round 12 of the Premier League.

In the 59th minute, Vieira replaced Kai Havertz, who had been playing poorly since the start of the match. But the Portuguese midfielder did not leave any mark, before tackling Josh Brownhill with his boot and receiving a straight red card in the 83rd minute. VAR did not intervene to change the decision of the main referee Oliver.

When asked about this after the match at the Emirates, Arteta replied: "Thank you for asking. VAR, the referee was right. That decision was really correct. It's positive for Arteta to say that positively. The refereeing team did a very good job in this match."

Coach Arteta in the match between Arsenal and Burnley in round 12 of the Premier League. Photo: Reuters — Coach Arteta in the match between Arsenal and Burnley in round 12 of the Premier League. Photo: *Reuters*

Arteta's comments contrast with the tensions he directed at the referee and VAR after the 0-1 loss at Newcastle in round 11. At that time, the Spanish coach affirmed that there was more than one reason why Anthony Gordon's goal for Newcastle was invalid, and called VAR's recognition of this goal a "disgraceful decision".

At the Emirates yesterday, Arsenal dominated but had to wait until the 45th minute to open the scoring thanks to a powerful header from Leandro Trossard. In the second half, after Josh Brownhill equalized from a messy situation in the penalty area, the Gunners scored two goals from corner kicks thanks to William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko to win 3-1.

Arteta said Arsenal fully deserved the three points. The Spaniard said he wanted Arsenal to score more from set pieces as opponents often sit deep, and was pleased with the two goals from corners. He also said Saliba had worked hard to improve his aerial ability when joining the attack recently, and was rewarded with his goal against Burnley.

Viera was sent off for the tackle. Photo: Reuters — Viera was sent off for the tackle. Photo: *Reuters*

In the opening goal, Trossard bravely headed in at high speed, causing a collision with the post and having to sit on the ground for a while before returning to the pitch. This was also the 1,000th goal scored by the home team at the Emirates Stadium. "It's a beautiful number and I'm happy for Trossard," Arteta said. "No matter where he plays, Trossard connects well with his teammates and is a constant threat. He moves in space in ways that attract opponents and create space and options for his teammates. So I'm really pleased."

The win kept Arsenal unbeaten in their last 38 home games against Premier League newcomers (W33 D5). They have 27 points after 12 games, equal on points but having played one game more than Man City - who play later in the round against Chelsea. Satisfied with the result, Arteta admitted he wanted Arsenal to be top before the international break. He revealed that he will stay in London to relax with family and friends in the coming days.

On November 25, Arsenal returns with a trip to Brentford in round 13 of the Premier League. Four days later, Arteta's team will host Lens in round four of Group B of the Champions League. If they win, the London team will be sure to continue as the top team.

Hong Duy

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