Arteta thanks Slot for taking heat off

MIKEL Arteta praised Arne Slot for the way he attempted to take the heat off Gabriel Martinelli after the Arsenal winger's role in Conor Bradley's season-ending injury.

- By CONNOR O'NEIL

Martinelli was widely criticised for throwing the ball at Conor Bradley and then attempting to push him off the pitch during Thursday's goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium.

However, it was confirmed on Sunday that Bradley will not play for Liverpool again this season after the club confirmed he had sustained a serious knee injury against Arsenal.