Mark Clattenburg reveals his honest thoughts on whether Jurrien Timber should have had a penalty for Arsenal v Liverpool

Arsenal travelled to Anfield in a crucial early title clash in the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta suffered a huge setback just five minutes into the game as Cristhian Mosquera had to replace William Saliba, who appeared to go off with an ankle problem.

It was a tight and cagey first half with neither side really taking control in the final third of the pitch, Gary Neville criticised Declan Rice for his deliveries from corners.

However, with half time approaching, Jurrien Timber went down under a challenge in the Liverpool penalty area and Mark Clattenburg has given his verdict on the incident.

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Mark Clattenburg agrees with referee decision over Jurrien Timber penalty appeal

Speaking to Arsenal Insider former Premier League referee Clattenburg agreed with referee Chris Kavanagh over the decision not to award the Gunners a first half penalty.

Clattenburg stated: “Jurrien Timber wants a penalty for a potential foul in the penalty area. I would have been very surprised if this was given as a penalty as Timber falls backwards which would suggest a holding offence which does not happen.

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“If there was any contact by the Liverpool defenders, it’s was very slight and normal football action so play on was the correct decision.”

Arsenal were convinced that Timber was pulled to the ground but their complaints were waved away and rightly so according to Clattenburg.

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Arsenal targeted Milos Kerkez during the clash

The incident occurred down Liverpool’s left flank and there seemed to be an emphasis from the Gunners on targeting left back Milos Kerkez.

Noni Madueke had the better of the full back on a number of occasions during the first half with his pace and trickery causing problems.

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Timber also joined into attacks well and it was on that left flank where the penalty shout occurred. Arteta will now be hoping his side can continue to probe on that side.

The game is certainly there for the Gunners to go and grab three points but they haven’t created any real openings thus far.

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