Gary Neville was far from complimentary about Alexis Mac Allister's reaction to an altercation with Arsenal players, branding the Liverpool midfielder's actions 'embarrassing'

Gary Neville has labelled Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's behaviour as 'embarrassing' following his involvement in a confrontation during the match against Arsenal.

The Argentine took exception to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, apparently tapping the Norwegian on the head, before Timber and Noni Madueke stepped in to challenge the Reds star over his actions. Madueke went head-to-head with Mac Allister, leaving the latter floored, yet the Englishman escaped punishment.

Both Timber and Mac Allister received bookings for their respective roles in the skirmish, while the video assistant referee reviewed and subsequently cleared the incident.

Neville was decidedly critical of Mac Allister's response to the situation. He said: "I don't think Mac Allister needs to go down like that but there's a little nudge with the head. A little inch forward can cost you a lot.

"Mac Allister's reaction is a bit over the top, I can tell you that. Get up. Embarrassing.", reports the Liverpool Echo.

"It's Mac Allister's fault because he slaps Odegaard when he's down which is unnecessary. It's the little movement forward of Madueke's head they're looking at.

"I hope they don't go for a red card for it. Well done to VAR because they're recognised that Mac Allister going down is embarrassing. He [the VAR] said that, but in a posher way."

Stuart Attwell served as video assistant referee at Stockley Park. In a transcript published by Premier League Match Centre, Attwell believed Madueke's actions during the confrontation were neither forceful nor violent.

He stated: "All of the situations have been checked and cleared. There is some contact as Madueke and Mac Allister square-up. In my opinion, it's not forceful, not violent, not brutal."

Kai Havertz's strike in the 16th minute proved decisive as the Premier League champions returned to the summit of the table. Liverpool put the hosts under pressure with Mac Allister's first-half header representing their clearest opportunity, though he could only direct his effort over the crossbar.

The Gunners adopted a cautious approach in the second period, maintaining their defensive discipline to prevent Liverpool from testing David Raya even once during the encounter.

The Reds saw a strong penalty appeal waved away after Jurrien Timber seemed to impede Alexander Isak, hindering his attempt to direct a Bradley Barcola delivery towards goal.

Liverpool ended the weekend outside the top four following Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Manchester United, which elevated Xabi Alonso's team into the Champions League qualification spots.