Journalist Defends 'Unwatchables' Label for Arsenal After Pundit's Personal Attack

Sports reporter Tom Collomosse has pushed back against criticism from former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, who questioned Collomosse's motives for labeling Mikel Arteta's Arsenal side "The Unwatchables." Keown, speaking on talkSPORT, reportedly stated that Collomosse is a Tottenham supporter looking to move to London, implying bias in his reporting.

Collomosse, writing in the Daily Mail, stated that the suggestion he is a lifelong Tottenham supporter and looking to relocate to London came as a shock, as he supports a different club entirely and has no plans to leave the Midlands. He also noted that he previously lived and worked in London for nearly 20 years.

Keown's comments were a reaction to a paragraph in Collomosse's report on Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. In that report, Collomosse contrasted Arsene Wenger's "Invincibles" with Arteta's current team, suggesting Arsenal now "endure Mikel Arteta's Unwatchables."

While Piers Morgan also disagreed with Collomosse's article, the reporter highlighted that Morgan did not speculate on his personal reasons for writing it. Collomosse acknowledged that while Arsenal are not obligated to entertain, their current style of play, despite their expense and expected title challenge, means they are unlikely to be remembered as historic teams like Wenger's Invincibles or legendary Manchester United or Liverpool sides.

Collomosse emphasized that he has no issue with Keown disagreeing with his analysis of Arsenal's performance. However, he believes that pundits should refrain from guessing or misrepresenting a journalist's motives. He pointed out that such speculation, particularly the incorrect claim about his allegiances, could lead listeners to doubt his professionalism and credibility.

Collomosse reiterated his reporting is based on what he observes. He cited Arsenal's match at Forest, where the team registered only one shot on target against a team that had yet to score at home and was missing its best player, as an example of their disappointing performance. He concluded by stating that his commentary is never influenced by the club he supports, which he noted is not part of the 'big six' and does not play in London or the Midlands.