Arsenal legend Ian Wright has hit out at critics of the team's post-match celebrations following their 3-1 victory over Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday. The win at the Emirates Stadium closed the gap to just two points, reigniting the title race.
Pundits Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville criticised the exuberance of Arsenal's players, with Carragher telling captain Martin Odegaard to 'just get down the tunnel' after he took a photo with the club photographer in front of jubilant fans. Neville described the celebrations as showing 'a little bit of immaturity'.
In a video posted on social media, Wright defended the team and manager Mikel Arteta, who celebrated passionately on the touchline. 'What has he done apart from celebrating a goal?' Wright said. 'Celebrating his team, celebrating a team that is trying to beat these juggernauts, Liverpool and Man City.'
Wright also highlighted Odegaard's photo with Stuart the photographer, a lifelong Arsenal supporter, calling the criticism unwarranted. 'Why is everybody trying to kill the joy? Don't kill the joy,' he urged fans and players alike.
He added: 'People are expecting us to bottle it and we're going through it, through injuries and everything, and the hatred is just so intense. Just leave us alone in the joy.' Wright concluded by telling Arsenal fans to 'enjoy our moments' after beating the league leaders.
