Walker Criticizes Referee Oliver for Arsenal Goal
Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has accused referee Michael Oliver of contributing to his team’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal. Walker believes Oliver’s handling of a stoppage in play allowed Arsenal to score an equalizer.
During the match, Oliver called over Walker and Arsenal captain Bukayo Saka to address tensions on the field.
While Walker was communicating with his teammates, the referee restarted play without him in position. Walker claims this allowed Arsenal to score.
Walker expressed his frustration, stating that if he had initiated the stoppage, it would be his responsibility to be in position. However, since he was called over by the referee, he believes Oliver should have waited for him to return before resuming play.
Walker told BBC5Live, “I’ve not gone over to the referee. Me and Bukayo have not gone over – he’s called us over.
“If I’m being called over, he should wait and allow me to get back in position before the ball is then going over my head.
“If I go over by my own accord and I’m out of position, it’s my fault. But I’m in position, he’s called the two captains to calm the players down.
“I’m walking back saying: Lads, concentrate, nothing stupid, make sure we get through this. The ball is then going over my head.
“If I was a goalkeeper, would he let me get back in my net? Of course. I’m a defender, I’m the first line of defense, he should let me get back in and be set and then blow the whistle”.