Davies (right) was not impressed by the behaviour of some Arsenal players

Bolton striker Kevin Davies has accused Arsenal's players of screaming when they are tackled in an attempt to "con" referees into awarding free-kicks.

"Sometimes it feels like they are trying to earn you a booking," said Davies, after his side's 1-0 defeat.

"A few of them let out a big scream, which is a bit embarrassing because it is a man's game."

An Arsenal spokesman said Gunners boss Arsene Wenger would be available to comment at Thursday's news conference.

Davies, who upset Wenger with a two-footed tackle on Gunners full-back Gael Clichy in September, added:"Kolo Toure did one, and he is big, strong man. He was screaming 'my leg' which is a bit unnecessary - but they get the free-kicks.

"In my eyes that is cheating the referee, they have conned him, but they are good at that and you just have to get on with the game."

606: DEBATE Arsenal used to be tough with Keown, Viera, Adams jimbo

Davies, however, believed Bolton should take encouragement from a game where they were only able to name three outfield players on the substitutes' bench because of injuries and suspensions.

Bolton next play Manchester United at the Reebok Stadium and the striker said: "If we can perform like that next week, then we will give them a game.

"We have only got a small squad, then we had suspensions and a few injuries, so we are all trying to work hard and can take a lot of positives out of the game because we probably deserved a point."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version