Chris Sutton brands Pedro Neto an ‘idiot’ after being shown a red card in Chelsea’s defeat to Arsenal

BBC pundit Chris Sutton has launched a scathing attack on Chelsea winger Pedro Neto. he branded the Portugal international an ‘idiot’ after his costly red card in the London derby against Arsenal.

Neto’s dismissal proved to be the turning point at the Emirates Stadium as the Gunners secured a crucial 2-1 victory to strengthen their title credentials.

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Chris Sutton defeats Pedro Neto

The incident took place in the second half, shortly after Jurrien Timber had headed Arsenal into a 2-1 lead.

Neto, who had already been warned for dissent in the immediate aftermath of the goal, lost his cool just three minutes later.

The winger made a reckless challenge on Gabriel Martinelli near the touchline, leaving referee Darren England little choice but to issue a second yellow card.

Speaking BBC Radio 5 LiveSutton did not hesitate in his assessment of the Chelsea star’s lack of discipline.

He said: “From Chelsea’s perspective, Pedro Neto has let them down badly. What an idiot to be sent off like that.

“You already get a yellow card for being assertive, which is stupid enough, and then flying into Martinelli while your team is chasing the game? That’s brainless.”

“He is now a senior player and he has effectively killed any chance of a comeback for his teammates.”

Huge win for Arsenal as the title race heats up

The win is a huge statement for Mikel Arteta’s side, who have now opened an opening five point lead top of the Premier League table above Manchester City.

Arsenal took the lead through William Saliba before Piero Hincapié’s own goal leveled the score just before half-time.

However, the Gunners’ skill at set pieces was again on display as Timber rose highest to meet Declan Rice’s corner in the 66th minute.

The win is Arsenal’s 16th goal from a corner this season, equaling a Premier League record.

For Chelsea, the defeat ends a promising six-match unbeaten run under Liam Rosenior, leaving them sixth in the table and facing an uphill battle for Champions League qualification.