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'I've seen a lot of other players doing it' - Bukayo Saka told to stop concerning Arsenal trait

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring
Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring -Credit:2024 Marc Atkins


David Seaman has called on Bukayo Saka and other Premier League players to stop feigning injury during matches. Saka, 22, was involved in a harsh tussle with Ryan Christie in Arsenal's recent 3-0 triumph over Bournemouth but managed to resume play after being treated.

The incident led to a wound on Saka's shin and although initially furious, the ex-Gunner tweaked his viewpoint upon re-watching the event. Expressing his views on the 'Seaman Says' podcast, he stated: "When I saw the tackle, straight away I was like, 'That's a red card!' He went over the top of the ball but then caught him on his knee and then dragged it down his shin."

Commenting on Saka's pronounced reaction to the challenge, a peeved Seaman remarked: "He needs to pack in that waving all the time as well because that's normally used as a signal to the physio bench when you are in trouble.

"It's not just Saka, I've seen a lot of other players doing it as well now. That was always the signal that you're really hurt so that they can get ready really quickly to get on as soon as the ref signals to them," reports the Mirror.

"But players are doing it now, they're doing that signal and then they're getting up and they're not even receiving treatment. They will try all sorts trust me, they're rule benders!"

Despite Seaman's viewpoint on Christie's tackle, a significant number of Arsenal supporters were left stunned when VAR didn't step in. Some vented their frustrations on social media, but the tension was alleviated by Arsenal's ability to secure a decisive victory.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta admits new Arsenal approach to referees amid Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka verdicts

READ MORE Arsenal could surrender huge title advantage to Manchester City amid final day suspension risk

The outcome puts the Gunners two points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table as we approach the final weeks of the season, although Pep Guardiola's side still have a game in hand over their title competitors.