Ange Postecoglou has rubbished claims that Arsenal defender Ben White was trying to cheat by messing with Guglielmo Vicario’s gloves during their recent win over Tottenham.
White could be seen trying to distract the Italian international during the visitors’ corner routines and there were questions over whether he was fouled for Arsenal’s third goal.
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The Gunners identified a clear weakness in their North London rivals that gave them an advantage on set pieces, with Vicario often unable to command his box and collect the ball.
This was also the case for Arsenal’s first goal, albeit Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg put the ball into his own net.
White’s actions left many Spurs fans frustrated but Postecoglou merely labelled the antics as a strategy from Mikel Arteta’s side.
He said: “It’s a strategy. You can label it but it’s a strategy. I’m not casting judgment.
“If people are going to think that’s going to give them an advantage or whatever … I don’t worry about that stuff. I just try to focus on building teams that win things.
“Mate, who cares seriously?” 🤷♂️
Ange Postecoglou reacts to Ben White’s antics after the Arsenal defender tried to disrupt Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario during the north London derby 🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/4z2XBW9TNF
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 2, 2024
“If it’s not going to be that then it’s going to be something else. I know it’s great theatre.
“Whether he [White] is trying to undo his glove, tickle his armpit or whatever … I don’t care.
“I try to get my players not to focus on that stuff. If you want to go down that avenue … what’s he [Vicario] supposed to do?
“Throw a punch and knock him out? Or say: ‘Please don’t touch me?’ What does that do?
“Seriously, we’re not in the schoolyard. To be honest, if I saw one of my players do it, I’d be saying: ‘Mate, seriously? Get the ball and play some football.'”
Spurs will be keen to avoid another London derby defeat when they travel to Chelsea tonight.
A win will push them one step closer to Aston Villa and Champions League football next season.
White and Arsenal will be back in action on Saturday when they host high-flying Bournemouth at the Emirates.
