Jordan Henderson and Gabriel Magalhaes were both ‘interviewed by referee Michael Oliver’ following their ‘blazing on-field row’ during Arsenal vs Liverpool.
The Gunners ran out 3-2 winners over Liverpool when the sides met at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.
Liverpool twice battled back to equalise before Bukayo Saka netted the winner from the penalty spot with around 15 minutes to go.
The penalty was given as Thiago Alcantara was adjudged to have fouled Gabriel Jesus. This was a contentious decision but it was upheld by VAR.
Players from both sides clashed when this penalty was awarded. Most notably, Gabriel was involved in a heated exchange with Henderson and the defender also gestured towards Oliver.
The referee subsequently spoke with Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp. The opposing managers remained tight-lipped when asked about the incident after the game.
During his post-match press conference, Arteta stated: “It was an incident that happened.
“Whatever happens on that pitch, stays on that pitch.”
It was later revealed that the FA will be reviewing this incident before they make a decision on a potential punishment for anyone involved:
“We are aware of an incident that took place during the match between Arsenal and Liverpool,” the FA said. “We are in dialogue with the match officials and will review the details of the incident.”
The Telegraph are reporting that Henderson and Gabriel were interviewed separately by Oliver post-match.
It is noted that ‘transcripts have been included in Oliver’s report’ and this has been handed over to the FA to assist with their investigation.
The referee was keen to speak to both players to get their version of events to provide the FA with more details.
The report adds that Gabriel ‘is understood to have immediately complained to Oliver about something he is alleged to have heard‘.
Another source has informed The Telegraph that there may be ‘contrasting interpretations over a phrase that was used’.
Arsenal and Liverpool are said to be cooperating with the FA and it is expected that ‘players who witnessed the row are also likely to be interviewed’.
It is believed that Klopp and Arteta were also interviewed by Oliver after the final whistle and the clubs have been ‘duty-bound to hand over any video footage’.
The report also notes that Henderson was due to speak with the media after the game but he ‘was taken off duties due to the row’.
Back to matters on the pitch, this win moved Arsenal back up to the top of the Premier League. They are one point clear of Man City.
Liverpool meanwhile are down in tenth and they are 14 points adrift of Arsenal having played a game less.
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