Mikel Arteta complained about the Puma balls after Arsenal’s defeat (Image: Getty / Sky Sports)
Mark Chapman led the taunts directed at Arsenal following Mikel Arteta’s claims his side struggled with the footballs during their semi-final defeat against .
Arteta was unhappy with the Puma ball used for the defeat, stating post-match: “We kicked a lot of balls over the bar, and it’s tricky that these balls fly a lot so there’s details that we can do better.”
During his opening statements for Wednesday night’s vs coverage, Chapman said: “It was 6-3 two weeks ago, plenty of goals, but I guess you’re expecting 0-0 this evening because of the ball.”
Jamie Redknapp was the first to jump in, replying with: “I was amazed he [Arteta] came out with that last night, the only thing I was disappointed with, he didn’t say it while we were on air.
“I get, it’s different with the Nike ball compared to the Puma ball. Only issue he’s got, next year the Puma ball is going to be used in the so he better get used to it quickly.”
Matt Dawson was next to have a pop, stating: “There is a difference [between the balls for professionals]. But would I have come out and said it after last night’s performance? Definitely not.
“, I think, is making excuses. They would have trained with that ball, there’s no doubt about that.”
Izzy Christiansen wrapped up the segment by saying: “Jokes aside, it’s probably a deflection mechanism. It was a sub-par performance from , they’d have at least expected to go to at the start of February with a better result.
“So yeah, has come out with a very bizarre statement about the ball. But I understand why he’s done it.”
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: . Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and .