BBC sports pundit and Arsenal legend Martin Keown has explained why he once parted ways with the Gunners. He was one of the star defenders for Arsenal in the 90s and was a part of the ‘Invincibles’ squad.
Keown has spent almost two decades of his career with the North London club. Martin made his professional debut with Brighton and Hove Albion on loan. His debut for Arsenal came in November 1985.
He made 22 appearances in his debut season and contributed to many goals. Keown has been a dedicated centre-back but has also played in different positions. He had an impressive debut season for the Gunners.
The arrival of George Graham as manager of Arsenal changed plans for Keown. Graham did not see Martin as part of his plan for the Gunners. He made his way to Aston Villa in 1986 at a price tag of 125,000 euros.
Keown has 43 capped games for England where he scored 2 goals as a defender. He retired from his professional footballing career in 2005. Martin did once again return for the final time to play for Wembley in the FA Cup.
What was the reason for Keown’s departure from Arsenal?
Martin Keown had every good debut season for the Gunners. This form was cut short when George Graham was appointed as the manager of Arsenal. He did not see Keown as a part of the plan for the team. Martin left the club in fury as he was denied a pay raise.
The former centre-back explained the situation on the Rest is Football podcast on why he parted ways with the North London club. Martin explained that he was being treated disrespectfully and was forced to leave his boyhood club he said-
“I said I’m not looking for a fortune just give me 100 euros per week extra. They said no way can’t do it”.
Martin was paid 200 euros for his first and 200 euros for his second. the former manager Dan Howe advised the Englishman that he should be paid more for the season. Keown wanted a pay raise but Arsenal did not consider increasing Keown’s wages.
The Englishman did make his return as an Arsenal player in 1993. Martin missed out on some important victories for the club due to injuries. He was not a part of Arsenal’s FA Cup and League Cup in 1993. Keown made 16 league appearances after his return with the Gunners.
He rarely missed a match after his return to Highbury. Martin has played a versatile role in Arsenal’s defence playing as a centre-back, left and full-back showcasing his versatility. Keown also made 27 appearances as a defensive midfielder.
The Arsenal legend continued his football career as coach for Newbury in 2005. Martin was an important part of Arsenal’s coaching staff in 2008. Keown regularly appears for BBC’s football coverage. He also covers the Champions League coverage for Irish TV channel TV3.
Gunners set to face Newcastle United in an away game
Arsenal continues their Premier League contention as they face Newcastle United in their next face-off. The Magpies will be a confident side as they face the Gunners in a familiar environment. Mikel Arteta’s men will look to secure three points from this game.
The current Premier title holders Manchester City sit at the top of the table. If the Gunners manage to win this away game it will put them in contention for the silverware. Mikel Arteta is hopeful that the team will win titles this season.
Liverpool are also looking to take their spot at the top berth hoping to dethrone Manchester City. The Gunners have recently come from a victory against Preston in the Carabao Cup. They will look to continue with their winning ways.
The Magpies are in the 12th position of the table but will look to give some completion to the Gunners. Arsenal has been a little shaky in away games this season. Newcastle will look to take advantage of this situation as the match is set up at St. James Park.
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