'I have no idea what he is doing': Ally McCoist baffled by what Raheem Sterling did in Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham
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Raheem Sterling made just his third Premier League start for Arsenal in the north London derby win against Tottenham.
The England international has hardly featured in Premier League action under Mikel Arteta this season – due to the form of Bukayo Saka – but was given a chance with the Arsenal No.7 currently sidelined, along with Gabriel Jesus.
Within three minutes, Raheem Sterling was played through on goal by Myles Lewis-Skelly with a perfectly weighted pass, but the Chelsea loanee seemingly fell over despite taking the ball past Antonin Kinsky under pressure from Djed Spence, leaving Ally McCoist baffled.
Ally McCoist suggests Raheem Sterling should have put Arsenal 1-0 up over Tottenham
The Arsenal No.30 appeared to have done all the hard work in collecting the pass from Lewis-Skelly and knocking the ball past Kinsky, but could not get to his feet before Archie Gray prodded it away to safety.
In truth, Sterling probably could have taken a shot first time rather than dribble the ball into a crowded penalty box, and his actions left McCoist shouting in confusion while on commentary duty for TNT Sports.
The 62-year-old said: “What is he doing? I have no idea what he is doing.”
Sterling – who boasts a great personal record against Tottenham – just seemed to want too much time in this instance.
How Raheem Sterling annoyed Arsenal fans in another moment during north London derby
The 30-year-old was largely ineffective against Tottenham, with Spence ultimately pocketing the man born in Kingston.
Not only could Sterling have put Arsenal 1-0 up, but he also seemed afraid to take the Tottenham No.24 on down that right flank, regularly turning backwards to play the safe pass which angered some fans.
Pat Nevin remarked on this moment while covering the north London derby for BBC Radio 5 Live, saying: “There’s a bit of a grumble against Raheem Sterling as he’s not gone past his opposing player when he has half a chance.”
Arsenal fans booed Martin Odegaard for being negative in possession during the FA Cup defeat against Manchester United as well – clearly, those inside the Emirates Stadium want to see the Gunners be more adventurous.
