Neville criticizes Gabriel after Arsenal beat Liverpool

Gary Neville criticized Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães after an early collision with Liverpool forward Alexander Isak during Arsenal’s 1-0 Premier League win at Anfield. Neville said Gabriel went down holding his face after Isak made contact with his upper chest, calling the reaction embarrassing and saying the defender should stop doing it. The incident came in the opening minutes as the players competed for the ball. Accounts described Isak’s raised leg or arm making contact, while replays were reported to show contact with Gabriel’s chest. The supplied reports do not establish Gabriel’s intent. Gabriel quickly returned to play, and the material does not detail the referee’s decision or any further action over the incident. Kai Havertz scored the only goal in the 16th minute, according to a match account. The result put Arsenal three points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Liverpool, who had the opportunity to move closer to the Champions League places, were left fifth after the defeat. Neville’s remarks focused on the difference between the point of contact and Gabriel’s response. He said he valued the defender’s passion and tenacity but believed he had...