Gibbs defends controversial challenge on Markovic

Matt Stead

Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs has defended his controversial challenge on Hull winger Lazar Markovic.

The Gunners edged to a 2-0 victory over relegation-battling Hull on Saturday, with Alexis Sanchez scoring both goals.

The hosts were far from convincing however, their opening goal being allowed despite a handball in the build-up.

Hull also felt aggrieved in the second half when Gibbs fouled Markovic, who was closing in on Petr Cech’s goal in search of an equaliser.

Mark Clattenburg saw fit to show the left-back a yellow card, but many felt that Gibbs was the last man, and so should have been sent off.

“I took a chance with the challenge on Markovic,” Gibbs admitted to Sky Sports. “The ref said the ball was going away from goal.”

Hull manager Marco Silva insisted that Gibbs should have been sent off.

He said: “Yes. It is true. Markovic goes to the goal.”