Merino was elbowed without penalty! Shearer: I don’t think it was intentional, but brilliant defending

In the 11th round of the Premier League, Arsenal drew 2-2 away with Sunderland. In the 7th minute of the game, Merino was hit by Ballard's elbow in the head while fighting for the top in the opponent's penalty area and fell to the ground in pain. The referee did not make a penalty on the ball.

Subsequently, commentators Alan Shearer and Walcott disagreed on Arsenal's VAR controversial penalty.

Walcott believed that a penalty kick should be awarded: "Although this is not a clear and obvious penalty kick, it should be noted that the game has just begun. Ballard obviously wanted to establish a defensive deterrent in the opening stage. Arteta mentioned before the game that he wanted to create 'interference', and I think this time the elbow was indeed of an interference nature. His elbow had an obvious lifting movement and hit Merino's cheekbone. Although Shearer and I have different opinions, I think his hand Raising the elbow too high does constitute an interfering action. "

Hiller said: "As a defensive player, if the forward is allowed to get stuck, that is his defensive area and he must not allow any forward to cross him. He first stabilizes his center of gravity and then jumps to the top. I don't think this is a deliberate hit. It is more of a wonderful defense."