Arsenal, who have become known for their set-piece prowess this season, have been called out for hypocrisy by former Stoke City star Rory Delap. Delap, famous for his long throws, revealed that Arsenal once tried to ban the practice when they were on the receiving end during his playing days.
Speaking to Ladbrokes, Delap said: "So many people used to complain about the way we played; it's funny that Arsenal are now known for their set-pieces, because they were probably the worst for complaining about how we played the game during that period. You know, with them it went as far as them wanting to ban throw-ins and replace them with kick-ins!"
Arsenal's former manager Arsene Wenger had previously criticised Stoke's long throw tactics, saying: "You cannot say it is football anymore. It is more rugby on the goalkeepers than football." Now, the Gunners have embraced set-pieces, leading the Premier League in set-piece goals this season, though they have yet to score from a long throw.
Delap emphasised the importance of set-pieces in modern football, noting that the ball is out of play for significant periods during a match. "You'd be daft not to utilise what you've got, especially when seasons can be successful or unsuccessful because of set-plays. That's just a fact," he added.
Earlier this season, former Liverpool throw-in coach Thomas Gronnemark criticised the trend of low-quality long throws in the Premier League, warning that many teams are not executing them effectively enough to be dangerous.
