‘My judgment stacks up’ – Keown responds to HRH Prince William on Buendia snub
Video credit: TNT Sports
Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard was chosen for the award by Keown in a game when his side’s 18-match unbeaten run came to an end via a last-gasp Emi Buendi winner.
Matty Cash had given Villa the lead before the break, only for Leandro Trossard to equalise in the second half.
With minutes remaining, Keown announced Odegaard, starting just his second game in two months after injury, as the best player on the pitch.
But moments later, substitute Buendia bagged Unai Emery’s side a seismic victory that moved them up to third in the Premier League table.
Keown was told live on air that his selection had sparked controversy, and responded: “I’m really sorry that I’ve upset royalty, but I actually gave it out – can you believe it – in the 89th minute. I was a bit early.
“We can unofficially do it (change the POTM). I don’t want to be court-martialled,”
But Keown has now doubled down on the decision.
Speaking on TNT Sports’ coverage of the UEFA Champions League clash between Arsenal and Club Brugge, the former defender said: “Well I think my judgement stacks up!
“Particularly when Buendia was on the pitch for seven minutes in total? I think two minutes after he came on, I gave out the man of the match award.
“So I hope he’s watching tonight, tuning into some Champions League football, and maybe Aston Villa can be in this competition again next season. I sincerely hope that happens.
“I’m very diplomatic.”
