Jermaine Jenas apologises for abusive criticism of referee at Arsenal vs Tottenham clash

Jermaine Jenas has apologised for calling the referee who officiated Tottenham’s draw at Arsenal on Sunday a ‘complete s***house’.

The former Tottenham midfielder, who now works as a TV pundit and presenter, expressed his anger on social media after the Gunners were awarded a controversial penalty by Robert Jones.

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Responding to the criticism on Monday, Jenas wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “I hold my hands up, I got it wrong yesterday.

“I should know, more than most, the responsibility we have as fans, players and pundits and the impact our words online can have as it’s an area I’ve been vocal in.

“My emotions got the better of me and I apologise to The FA [Football Association] and to all match officials.”

Jenas’ initial post came after Jones had been advised by the Video Assistant Referee to take another look at an incident in which the ball had hit the arm of Spurs defender Cristian Romero from close range.

Jones had not initially awarded a penalty, but did so after the review and Bukayo Saka promptly dispatched the spot-kick to make it 2-1 to the home side, although Heung-min Son levelled almost immediately to ensure the derby finished all square.

Jenas, who was part of the FA, Premier League and EFL’s Love Football, Protect the Game campaign ahead of the new season, wrote: “Complete s”**house off [sic] a referee! They’re all ruining the our game!”

The charity Ref Support UK accused Jenas of encouraging the abuse of match officials.

The organisation said on X: “This is a disgraceful tweet and you should be ashamed. Your tweet encourages online abuse of referees and considering your role on TV your employers need to give their head a wobble.

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“Remember Anthony Taylor and his family were attacked at an airport because of antics such as yours.”