Robert Pires slams Arsenal for ‘lack of concentration’ at West Ham and rages ‘this isn’t Anfield’ after collapse
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 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.”