Nicolas Pepe's agent hits back after Mikel Arteta slams Arsenal star for Leeds red card

Nicolas Pepe's agent Samir Khiat has backed Arsenal player, following Mikel Arteta's criticism for his actions that resulted in a red card during Arsenal's 0-0 draw with Leeds United. Gunners boss was angry with the club's record signing's behavior, considering it "unacceptable". “I never like a draw but in the circumstances it’s a point. It (the red card) is unacceptable. “With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to do what we had to do and had a moment or two to win the game, but obviously it makes it really difficult," the manager said. And Khiat was quick to react to Arteta's comments, claiming the £72million club-record fee has proved to be a burden for former Lille player, who remains one of Arsenal's best-attacking players. Agent told L'Equipe: "Nicolas did well at Lille. We are always expecting more from Nicolas Pepe which is normal because he has been transferred to Arsenal for a consequent transfer fee. "When you look at the chances created by Arsenal for the past two seasons, Pepe has been the attacking player who created most of the chances with Aubameyang. "He is still adapting and he is requested to perform better, which is normal, he has been transferred for an important fee and he knows it. "Nicolas is not cheating, he is not a cheater. He maybe needs more time to adapt, but it will eventually work well."

Source: Express

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