ROBERT PIRES has slammed Arsenal for their “lack of concentration” against West Ham.
And the former Gunner also questioned how Mikel Arteta’s men blew a two-goal lead at the London Stadium, adding: “This isn’t Anfield.”
Arsenal have been criticised for throwing a two-goal lead to draw at West HamRichard Pelham / The Sun
Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowRobert Pires believes Arsenal’s lack of concentration came back to bite again[/caption]
Arsenal threw away a comfortable two-goal lead last weekend in a chaotic draw against Liverpool.
Now their title dream hangs in the balance after lightning struck twice against at West Ham on Sunday.
The Gunners were cruising at 2-0 following early goals from Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard.
West Ham pulled one back before half-time through Said Benrahma’s penalty.
But Arsenal blew the chance to restore their two-goal lead after Bukayo Saka missed his own spot-kick.
Jarred Bowen then ensured the points would be split with an equaliser for 2-2.
And Arsenal are now just four points ahead of defending champions Man City, who still have a game in hand after beating Leicester 3-1 on Saturday.
The Gunners, who still have to play City this month, have now recorded two successive draws after also being held at Liverpool.
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Arsenal also surrendered a two-goal lead at Anfield after struggling to cope with the ferocity of the home crowd.
And former winger Pires has now blasted his old side for lacking a winning mentality.
The legendary Frenchman believes West Ham were buoyed by Arsenal’s slip in concentration.
But Pires insists the comeback was unforgiveable, reminding the Gunners they were not at Anfield – famous for its hostile reception.
He told Canal Plus: “We are not at Anfield but it’s a similar lack of concentration, a little mistake.
“It gives the opponent a notion that they can come back into it. Basically the same thing against Liverpool.
“Two points lost with Man City’s rhythm… It still comes down to the April 26th fixture. I think there is fear.”
Fellow pundit and former Leeds star Olivier Dacourt added: “Even for Mikel Arteta, this is new.
“As a coach having a title shot, it’s a new experience. He should have made substitutions earlier today.”