Martin Keown Called Out For Comment Made to Noni Madueke in Post-Match Interview

Martin Keown has been criticised for his line of questioning during a post-match interview involving Arsenal forward Noni Madueke.

Since joining the club from Chelsea in July for a reported £48.5 million, Madueke has featured in all four of Arsenal’s opening Premier League fixtures, with his performances being commended by many.

He continued his impressive form on Saturday afternoon as goals from summer signings Martin Zubimendi (2) and Viktor Gyokeres sealed a comfortable 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

After the full-time whistle, Madueke reflected on his start to life at the Gunners, as well as their performance against Forest, while speaking to the TNT Sports punditry team.

But mid-way through the interview, Madueke was met with a difficult question from former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, who admitted he thought Madueke has been “a little bit selfish” in the past.

Keown started the questioning by asking: “Noni, have you taken your game to another level? Because you look more collective. I was worried about you when you came. Because I thought sometimes you can be a little bit selfish.”

He added: “But now, you seem to have got really good balance to your play. The decisions you’re making have been outstanding…”

As seen in the footage below, TNT presenter Lynsey Hipgrave interjected. “Feel free to tell him he’s talking rubbish,” she laughed.

Keown continued: “No, no. I think it’s getting that balance. I think your decision-making has changed. Is that the manager? Is it the new club? What has happened?”

To his credit, Madueke delivered a level-headed response. “I feel it’s important to keep that self-belief that you can get the ball and do it yourself as well,” he said.

“As a winger, I feel like you need that. But of course, like you’re saying, I’m playing with such top players and it’s important for me to try and find them as much as I try and play my own type of game.”

He added: “It’s easy to play with these guys. I’m having a great time. Maybe I have taken a step in that direction.”

“It’s going to be special” ✨

Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke reflect on Arsenal’s win, look ahead to their Champions League debuts and address Ribery x Robben comparisons… 👀

Here’s how fans on social media reacted to Keown’s line of questioning.

One said: “Martin Keown makes me cringe. Somebody take that mic off him. Telling Madueke to his face that he’s selfish,” while another wrote: “Martin keown, what sort of nonsense is that comment.”

A third commented: “I loved how Madueke answered the question about selfish play from Martin Keown. He gave a pretty mature and stoic answer and that’s great considering he plays for The Arsenal. Media will always try to bait players especially when the team is doing well. Well in @NoniMadueke_.”

A fourth said: “Good answer by Madueke but bit of a harsh question by Keown imo,” and a fifth added: “Oi Keown that question to Madueke was uncalled for.”

Thoughts on the interview? Let us know in the comments.