Arteta explains reaction to Dowman red card amid criticism

Max Dowman was sent off in Arsenals defeat to Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup and Mikel Arteta appeared to say something to the 16-year-old as he went down the tunnel; that drew criticism from Paul Merson but Arteta has explained what he said to the 16-year-old

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Mikel Arteta has explained his reaction to Max Dowman as the 16-year-old went down the tunnel after being sent off in Arsenal's shock Carabao Cup exit to Fleetwood Town.

Moments before Arsenal exited the competition on penalties to the League Two sidee, Dowman was sent off for violent conduct for allegedly lashing out at Fleetwood defender Harrison Neal. The pair challenged for a couple of 50-50s before a brawl broke out.

Dowman then went down the tunnel and Arteta appeared to lean towards and say something to the teenager as he walked past. That treatment of the youngster was criticised by Paul Merson, who felt the Arsenal manager should have put an arm around him.

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Source: Sky Sports