Former Premier League striker Stan Collymore has criticized Arsenal's Kai Havertz for his role in winning a controversial penalty against AFC Bournemouth. The incident occurred when Havertz was fouled by visiting goalkeeper Mark Travers just before half time, resulting in referee David Coote awarding a spot kick which was eventually converted by Bukayo Saka.
Collymore expressed his belief that instead of rewarding penalties for such incidents, players like Havertz should be shown yellow cards as punishment for simulation. However, TNT Sports pundits Joe Cole and Martin Keown defended the referee's decision and supported giving penalties where they are deserved.
Cole highlighted how young goalkeepers can struggle in such situations but ultimately believed it was the correct call from Coote. On the other hand, Keown acknowledged that while Travers had performed well up until then, he showed signs of inexperience which allowed Havertz to take advantage.