'He was bored' – Martin Keown slams Gary Neville for scathing criticism of Arsenal star

Martin Keown has fiercely defended Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli after Gary Neville launched a harsh critique of the forward's recent performances, accusing him of lacking intent and appearing disinterested.[1]

The spat erupted following Arsenal's tense 0-0 draw against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on January 8, 2026, where Martinelli struggled to make an impact. Neville, on his podcast, described Martinelli as looking "bored" during the match, suggesting the Brazilian winger had lost his edge and was not pressing with the intensity expected from Mikel Arteta's high-energy side. He pointed to Arsenal's poor record against the 'Big Six'—just two wins in seven games this season—as evidence of deeper issues, claiming Martinelli's dip contributed to their failure to seize the initiative against Jurgen Klopp's team.[1][2]

Keown hit back on social media and in interviews, labeling Neville's comments as "disingenuous lies" and a "nasty" misrepresentation. The former Arsenal defender argued that Neville had a history of similar unfounded attacks, referencing past criticism of Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes. "He was bored? That's not fair. Gary got it wrong—this wasn't a premeditated lack of effort," Keown stated, emphasizing Martinelli's overall contributions despite injury setbacks and Arsenal's grueling schedule.[1]

Keown highlighted Arsenal's recent form, noting how media "rage bait" had amplified negativity after they slipped from a two-point lead to a six-point deficit over eight days. He praised Martinelli's work rate, insisting the 24-year-old remains vital to Arsenal's title push, with Roy Keane and Daniel Sturridge echoing concerns about the team's tension and lack of initiative in the draw but crediting Liverpool's tactical edge.[1][2]

The exchange underscores ongoing pundit rivalries, with Neville accused of bias against Arsenal amid their Premier League charge. Arteta's squad now faces pressure to respond on the pitch, as the title race intensifies.[1]

(Word count: 298)