Richard Keys claims he knows the real reason Mikel Arteta didn’t over-celebrate Arsenal’s win at West Ham and also has his say on Declan Rice.
Much was made about both Declan Rice’s return and over-celebrating ahead of West Ham’s clash with Arsenal.
There was certainly nothing for West Ham to celebrate.
But there was plenty for Arsenal as Rice rounded off a humiliating 6-0 win.
Arsenal and Mikel Arteta had been criticised for over-celebrating in the lead up to the Hammers trip.
Keys claims he knows real reason Arteta didn’t over-celebrate
But both the Gunners boss and Rice were very reserved as their team trounced West Ham.
Rice refused to celebrate a brilliant goal against his old side.
And Arteta, last seen sprinting down the touchline during Arsenal’s win over Liverpool, was quiet.
Now Richard Keys claims he knows the real reason Arteta didn’t over-celebrate Arsenal’s win at West Ham.
‘Nonsense’
And the beIN Sports pundit has praised Rice’s respect towards the Hammers.
Writing on his own website, ex Sky Sports anchor Keys says Arteta was not put off by the media attention around over-celebrating.
Instead he says the Spaniard was scared of disrespecting West Ham boss David Moyes.
“Arteta proved that he can behave himself on a touchline,” Keys said.
‘You look dignified for once’
“There were none of his usual tiresome antics – which he claims are because he’s an excitable character. Nonsense.
“I know why he behaved – because David Moyes was in the other technical area and he has too much respect for his old boss. So – try pretending he’s there every week Mikel. You looked dignified for once. Well done.”
Keys also described Rice’s ‘muted’ celebration as ‘respectful and classy’ towards West Ham.
Hammers supporters clearly agreed. They gave him an ovation when he was substituted.
Arsenal fans were not missing the opportunity to rub salt in West Ham wounds, though.
They aimed a cruel chant at the Hammers faifthful at the London Stadium.
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