Former Arsenal forward, Alan Smith, has expressed his disapproval of Chelsea players, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke, for their argument over who should take the penalty in the Blues’ match against Everton in the Premier League on Monday.
Smith advised Jackson and Madueke to mature and remarked that he has never witnessed such behavior before.
The match saw Chelsea triumph over Everton with a 6-0 victory at Stamford Bridge, with four goals from Cole Palmer and one each from Jackson and Alfie Gilchrist.
However, a tense moment arose between Jackson and Madueke regarding the penalty awarded to Palmer.
Initially, Jackson took the ball and headed towards the penalty spot, but Madueke attempted to wrestle the ball from him.
After a brief argument, Chelsea captain Conor Gallagher intervened, taking the ball and handing it to Palmer, who successfully converted the penalty.
“That is disappointing, truly disappointing,” commented Smith during the Sky Sports broadcast.
“Who is the assigned penalty taker? Cole Palmer. Just give him the ball and let him handle it. Personal stats shouldn’t matter.
“Noni Madueke is determined to take it! He is in a dispute with Nicolas Jackson. Such a sight is unprecedented, especially given the game’s scoreline.
“Act your age. I don’t blame Palmer for asserting his right to take it. He is supposed to be the penalty taker and the most reliable one at it.”