Arsenal defender Gabriel breaks silence on 'over-celebration' against Liverpool

Arsenal star Gabriel has hit back after his side were faced with criticism for over-celebrating their win against Liverpool.

In a result that tightened things up at the top of the Premier League, Arsenal beat the Reds 3-1 last weekend thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Following a superb display by the Gunners, they moved to within two points of their opponents in top spot, prompting jubilation from the bouncing Emirates crowd - something that was matched on the pitch after the final whistle.

It was the post-match scenes that took over the back-pages, with the extravagant celebrations drawing the ire of many - including Reds legend Jamie Carragher.

He said: "Just get down the tunnel, you've won a game. It's three points, you've been brilliant you are back in the title race, get back down the tunnel. I am serious - honestly."

However, Gabriel has taken issue with comments criticising his teammates, believing that it's moments such as these that make football so special.

The Brazilian told the Daily Star: "Celebrations are part of football. If we didn't have any celebrations, then the game would be no fun.

"I think against Liverpool, we played against a huge team in a huge game. We'd worked so hard all week to face them and then we got the result we wanted.

"So, of course, we are going to be happy that we won. When you win a big game like this it's only natural to celebrate."

After Liverpool got back to winning ways against Burnley, Arsenal will need a result against West Ham on Sunday to stay within touching distance of their title rivals.