Tribal Football

Hincapie says Arsenal's tactics are not "illegal" despite mass criticism from rival teams

Hincapie says Arsenal's tactics are not "illegal" despite mass criticism from rival teams
Hincapie says Arsenal's tactics are not "illegal" despite mass criticism from rival teamsREUTERS

Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie has jumped to the defence of the club's tactics after a lot of criticism.

Mikel Arteta's side sit on top of the Premier League after a very successful season so far as they chase down a possible quadruple. 

Advertisement
Advertisement

The Gunners have 16 goals from corners this season, equalling the Premier League single-season record which has led to questions being asked about the quality of the English top flight. 

Many supporters have argued that Arsenal could be the ugliest Premier League winners in history and that their corner style is bending the rules each time they crowd the box and wrestle players. 

Now, speaking ahead of the clash with Bayer Leverkusen, Hincapie has defended his team’s style of play which he says is not against the rules. 

"Our will to win makes us perfectionists. 

"We pay attention to the details. Our set-piece strength is talked about all over Europe. That’s the result of daily training with our set-piece coach, Nico Jover.  

“That sounds annoying, but the results mean that every one of us is eager to score from a corner or a free kick. 

"The most important thing for me is that we are successful and don’t do anything illegal in the process," Hincapie insisted. He bluntly concluded his point by adding, "You can’t always win beautifully." 

Earlier this month Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler told Hincapie to "f****** play football" as tensions between Premier League sides and Arsenal continue to grow.

Hincapie responded by laughing and putting a finger to his mouth to tell Hurzeler to be quiet which only sparked frustrations even more.

"I don't hold that against him at all," Hincapie told BILD. "In the heat of the game, differences of opinion are bound to arise. 

Related Articles