Arsenal’s Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez celebrates after scoring their second goal during the English Premier League football match between West Ham United and Arsenal at The London Stadium, in east London on December 3, 2016. Justin TALLIS / AFP
West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis branded Alexis Sanchez a cheat after accusing the Arsenal star of diving to win a free kick in Monday’s Premier League clash.
Pulis was furious that Sanchez went unpunished after winning a first-half free kick on the edge of the Albion penalty area with a theatrical fall after a challenge from Craig Dawson.
Referee Bobby Madley later turned down Albion penalty appeals when Jay Rodriguez was brought down by Shkodran Mustafi with the scoreline at 0-0, and also gave Arsenal a spot-kick which was converted by Alexandre Lacazette.
Arsenal won 2-0 thanks to Lacazette’s brace and Pulis was quick to make it clear he was unhappy with Chile forward Sanchez.
“The disappointing thing is Sanchez falls for the first free kick, that’s cheating,” Pulis said.
“Jay is very honest and does not get rewarded. Everyone saw what happened. Sanchez actually dives for the first free kick and he should be booked for diving.
“Then you see the tackle in the box. The referee had a great view. Everyone has seen it and can make their minds up.”
