Outstanding pundit and former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has revealed his admiration for a post-match argument between Gunners defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Following a 1-0 away win over Leicester Metropolis within the Premier League final month, Gabriel and Saliba had been seen having an change on the pitch. Regardless of the victory, the 2 gamers gave the impression to be discussing an error made throughout the contest.

Merson in contrast it to an incident he confronted with Arsenal legend Ian Wright. The Sky Sports activities pundit wrote in a column for the Each day Star (as quoted by TBR Soccer):

“I cherished the incident between William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes after the full-time whistle at Leicester. I don’t thoughts that in any respect. The 2 defenders had been arguing with one another regardless of retaining a clear sheet and securing three factors.”

He added:

“If I didn’t go the ball to Ian Wright again in my day, it was like that. We had arguments at half-time and as soon as away at Nottingham Forest after I didn’t slip him by for an opportunity and he made positive to let me understand how he felt.”

Merson concluded:

“I’d reasonably see gamers doing that and exhibiting they care in regards to the sport. It will possibly solely be a constructive for [Mikel] Arteta for my part.”

The Gunners’ protection, led by Gabriel and Saliba, notably restricted Leicester to an anticipated targets (xG) determine of simply 0.02. The Foxes, regardless of enjoying on their dwelling turf on the King Energy Stadium, managed only one shot, which was off beam, in 90 minutes.

Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba have loved very good Premier League campaigns up to now for Arsenal

Arsenal at present maintain the second-best defensive file within the Premier League this season, having conceded simply 23 instances in 25 matches. They’re solely behind Newcastle United, who’ve let in simply 15 targets.

The Gunners’ first-choice centre-back pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba has been key to their defensive prowess. The duo have notably began each single league match for his or her facet this season, serving to them preserve 11 clear sheets.

Gabriel has averaged 4.6 profitable duels, 3.3 clearances, 1.3 tackles and 0.8 interceptions per sport. The Brazilian has additionally chipped in with two targets, whereas managing an outstanding 89% passing accuracy throughout 25 matches.

Saliba, in the meantime, has been caught out on a few events in latest matches, however has been spectacular general for Arsenal. He has averaged 4.0 profitable duels, 3.0 clearances, 1.2 tackles and 0.7 interceptions per sport, whereas additionally netting two targets and finishing 91% of his passes.

Their performances have undoubtedly helped the Gunners set up a five-point lead on the high of the standings.