Arsenal star booked for sarcasm as he out-Deans Dean

Will Ford

Matteo Guendouzi appeared to be booked for sarcasm in a vintage Mike Dean moment in Arsenal’s clash against Portsmouth in the FA Cup fifth round.

The Frenchman has been out of favour in recent weeks after a reported incident of indiscipline during the winter break.

He was recalled to the side for the tie at Fratton Park as Arteta made nine changes to the team that lost 2-1 in the Europa League to Olympiacos.

With 35 minutes on the clock, the 20-year-old was shown a yellow card by Mike Dean in bizarre circumstances.

Dean brought play back as Arsenal had taken a free-kick too quickly in the centre circle.

And Guendouzi sarcastically slammed the ball down on the ground, in a moment of petulance that was punished by Dean, who has a reputation for being one of football’s more theatrical officials.

It was wonderful.

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