An unsurprising statistic given Arsenal’s lack of fortune this term, the Gunners have conceded nine penalties this campaign – the second highest in the division.

Only Marco Silva’s Hull City side have conceded more (12), and they sit two points outside the relegation places with three matches remaining.

What makes this even worse is Petr Čech’s save success since his move to north London which currently stands at 0%. He’s yet to save a spot-kick for Arsenal, having already made 74 senior club appearances to date.

Nacho Monreal’s trip on Callum Wilson back at the end of November was the second spot-kick conceded in consecutive Premier League fixtures and although, upon reflection, many have caused debate, they all refers back to a key word – clumsiness.

Only decisions against Hull and Sunderland were clear-cut, both of which came during routine victories for Arsenal. In crucial, match-defining moments though, officials have often been deceived by a player’s action or their team-mates’ response afterwards.

Tottenham midfielder Mousa Dembele and Bournemouth forward Callum Wilson provide two clear examples of this, where they’ve expected a foul from the on-rushing opponent and gone down in a heap after minimal contact.

When you look at the statistics in further detail, penalties given against Arsenal in the league have already cost them four points but do not tell the full story.

Andros Townsend’s theatrics effectively silenced all hopes of a comeback at Selhurst Park last month, where the hosts were 2-0 up but not particularly home and dry.

Even though Dele Alli broke the deadlock shortly beforehand, who knows what would’ve happened this past weekend if Arsenal had not conceded so soon afterwards after another debatable officiating decision?

They could’ve gone on to win both fixtures, or at least snatch a share of the points: something they have done before this season, as opposed to playing with a totally deflated side after conceding two in quick succession.