Simon Jordan criticises Martin Keown for bias during Champions League match
Simon Jordan has launched a scathing attack on Martin Keown, branding the former Arsenal defender the “grand frommage of bias” following his commentary during Wednesday evening’s Champions League encounter between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, reports BritPanorama.
The talkSPORT presenter took to social media to express his frustration after watching Keown defend a contentious late penalty awarded to the Gunners. The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with Kai Havertz converting from the spot in the 89th minute to salvage a point for the Premier League leaders.
The penalty decision has sharply divided opinion since Madueke came off the bench and went down in the area following contact with Malik Tillman. Critics suggest that the Chelsea loanee exaggerated the challenge, claiming that only a minimal touch on his left boot occurred, which was insufficient to bring him down.
Keown, who made 422 appearances for Arsenal during his playing career, maintained that the officials made the correct decision during his analysis on TNT Sports. He asserted, “For me, it was a penalty.” His insistence on the penalty’s validity has drawn significant scrutiny from pundits.
Gabriel Agbonlahor was particularly damning in his assessment, characterising Madueke’s fall as a “blatant dive” and dubbing Keown “Mr. Bias” for his unwavering support of the decision. Agbonlahor remarked, “It’s getting a bit silly now his bias towards Arsenal. I’m just surprised VAR didn’t overturn it. Arsenal were very lucky and boring to watch.”
TNT Sports presenter Lynsey Hipgrave also attempted to challenge Keown’s impartiality during the broadcast. She asked, “If that was given against Arsenal though, what would you be thinking?” Keown dismissed the hypothetical, responding, “You’re turning things around though. It wasn’t, Lynsey. It wasn’t a penalty given against Arsenal.”
The clash between Jordan and Keown is far from unprecedented, with both pundits engaging in heated discussions following Arsenal’s matches previously, including their recent north London derby victory over Tottenham. During that exchange, Jordan directly told Keown, “I’m not sure you need to lecture people about how they conduct themselves, Martin, you have no objectivity.” He added, “You are very subjective about situations, you become very defensive of it, no-one has got any agenda against Arsenal.”
These ongoing debates reflect the intense scrutiny football commentators face, navigating both their allegiances and professional objectivity. The Champions League draw has intensified these dynamics, illustrating how even the most divisive decisions can ignite passionate discussions among analysts and fans alike.
