Giroud slams Verratti after red cards

The Frenchman has hit out at the midfielder, claiming that the situation that led to them both being dismissed was “escalated” needlessly.

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud criticised Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti for going to the ground easily after both saw red in the 1-1 Champions League draw.

The duo were shown second yellow cards in additional time at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday after a tangle.

Giroud brought down Verratti before Marquinhos pushed the Arsenal man into his team-mate, leading to bookings.

The Frenchman was unimpressed by Verratti, left frustrated by his sending off.

“Being on a yellow card, I didn’t want to make waves,” Giroud said afterwards.

“I obstructed Verratti, he threw himself to the ground and I don’t understand. Marquinhos pushed me from behind and I don’t know how Verratti falls a second time.

“It escalated the situation. It’s frustrating, especially since I don’t know if the referee saw what happened.

“I was really surprised at his behaviour.”

Edinson Cavani had given PSG a first-minute lead at home, but Alexis Sanchez salvaged a point for Arsenal in the second half.