Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has claimed that Arsenal's potential Premier League title should carry an asterisk, accusing the Gunners of excessive gamesmanship and time-wasting tactics.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Pardew criticised Arsenal's approach after their 1-0 victory over Brighton, which extended their lead at the top of the table. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler had earlier condemned Arsenal's conduct, particularly goalkeeper David Raya's repeated injury stoppages, saying the Gunners were 'making their own rules'.
Pardew said: 'When I'm looking at them with my football manager's head on, they're so professional. They do every bit of gamesmanship to get it over the line.' He added that an asterisk would be needed because 'there is nothing beautiful about them'.
Arsenal managed only seven shots on goal and completed just 70.9 per cent of their passes in a subdued attacking display, but their defensive resilience secured the win. Hurzeler stated he would never try to win in that way, questioning whether fans were paying for such football.
