Gary Neville branded 'a disgrace' after making violent remark on live TV

"I am actually fuming with Martinelli. I don't know how the Liverpool players didn't go over and absolutely whack him to be honest with you and take a red card. Absolutely disgraceful, that," Neville stated during co-commentary.

Gunners fans took to social media platform X to condemn the pundit's remarks, however, with many left furious.

One prominent Arsenal fan account posted: "Gary Neville is a disgrace by the way, a commentator that was supposed to be neutral calling for Liverpool players to whack Martinelli."

Another supporter wrote: "You are now seeing the REAL Gary Neville. Not the pundit but him as a human being.

"One who hates Arsenal, and has his whole career. Terrible person. Sure Martinelli's actions were not good but to advocate for violence on the pitch is nothing short of a disgrace."

A third fan raised concerns about younger viewers: "Neville is a disgrace for saying that on the TV during the match.

"Imagine kids watching the match and hear him say something like that."

The flashpoint occurred in added time when Martinelli attempted to remove Bradley from the field of play despite the Northern Irish defender clearly being in considerable distress.

The Arsenal forward initially threw the ball at Bradley before signalling to officials that the 22-year-old should be taken off, then physically shoved him.

Liverpool players Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ibrahima Konate immediately rushed towards Martinelli and pushed him away.

Martinelli subsequently issued an apology via Instagram just hours after the final whistle.

"Conor and I have messaged and I've already apologised to him," the winger wrote.

"I really didn't understand he was injured in the heat of the moment. I want to say I'm deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery."

Neville was not alone in his criticism of the Brazilian's conduct.

Roy Keane, drawing parallels with his own experience when Alf-Inge Haaland stood over him after he ruptured his cruciate ligament, described the behaviour as "an absolute disgrace."

Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge labelled the incident "worse than disrespectful," adding that footballers must show awareness when opponents are genuinely hurt.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed grave concern over Bradley's condition after the defender departed the Emirates on crutches wearing a knee brace following an awkward landing.

"I am afraid another injury have come up today. Let's hope for the best but I fear the worst for Conor Bradley," Slot said.

The Dutch coach nevertheless defended Martinelli's character, stating he was certain the Arsenal player would never have acted that way had he understood the severity of the injury.

Slot also suggested the prevalence of time-wasting in football may have contributed to Martinelli's frustration.