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Football

28th Aug 2022

Steward thinks Oleksandr Zinchenko is pitch invader during Arsenal goal celebrations

Callum Boyle

Oleksandr Zinchenko

The steward accidentally mistook Zinchenko for a pitch invader

An Arsenal steward almost escorted Oleksandr Zinchenko out of the Emirates Stadium after mistaking him for being a pitch invader during the celebrations for the winning goal.

The Gunners recovered to come from a goal behind to beat Fulham maintain their 100 per cent start to the Premier League on Saturday.

Aleksandar Mitrović pounced on Gabriel’s poor touch to steal the ball and give the away side the lead before captain Martin Ødegaard levelled the game shortly after.

Gabriel went from zero to hero as his late goal from a corner ensured that Mikel Arteta’s side would remain at the top of the table. The Brazilian’s finish sparked wild scenes as players rushed down to the touchline to celebrate with the defender.

Zinchenko, who had been ruled out of the game with a knee injury, was one of those however the steward didn’t recognise him at first. The Ukraine international was wearing a black top and at first glance did look like he had ran onto the pitch from the stands.

The steward moved forward to stop the defender but then realised who it was, immediately backing off to avoid anymore confusion.

Since making the switch from Manchester City, Zinchenko has already had a positive impact at the club. Featuring in three of the opening four games, the 25-year-old has been part of Arteta’s new-look side that have impressed in the opening stages of the season.

Arsenal are the only side in the top flight yet to drop points although Saturday’s win was the first time they had to come from behind to secure the three points.

Arteta’s side are back in action on Wednesday where they will take on Aston Villa.

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