Premier League clubs complain to referees about Arsenal's underhanded tactics, managers discuss matter privately - report

Premier League clubs have complained to PGMOL about Arsenal's use of dirty tricks, raising concerns with the refereeing body about the Gunners' repeated use of dirty tricks and delays last season.

The apparent delaying tactics employed by Arsenal were a topic of discussion among other Premier League clubs last year, with coaching staff and analysts in England's top flight openly discussing "dirty tricks" among themselves.

The north London club used the delaying tactics against Manchester City on Sunday, with the lengthy stoppage of play angering their opponents.

Arsenal midfielder Miles Lewis-Skelly was sent off after delivering a message to goalkeeper David Raya on the touchline for delaying play before kick-off.

The Spaniard fell to the ground for a lengthy treatment, allowing head coach Mikel Arteta to have a tactical discussion with his players on the pitch as they looked to preserve their lead with just 10 men.

While they are not the only club to do so, the Gunners have been sent off for kicking the ball to prevent opponents from taking a quick free-kick.

This was demonstrated by Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard being sent off after receiving second yellow cards in games against Brighton and Hove Albion and Manchester City.

Last season, Arsenal were known for blocking or interfering with opponents, including the opposition goalkeeper, during set-pieces, with Ben White often doing this by irritating the opposition goalkeeper and other underhand tactics.

This led to changes to the Premier League’s set-piece rules, with blocking or interfering with opponents now more strictly penalised during set-pieces, when an attacking player attempts to prevent an opponent from moving.

This season and beyond, attempts to obstruct opponents during free kicks and corners will be further cracked down on, with teams no longer allowed to obstruct opponents.

Time delay will also be condemned, with PGMOL taking complaints against Arsenal from other Premier League clubs seriously.