ARSENAL legend Ray Parlour has labelled AFTV ’embarrassing’ in a fiery on-air exchange with Robbie Lyle.
The AFTV host was invited onto talkSPORT’s Sports Breakfast to chat about yesterday’s fan forum and the ownership of the Kroenkes in the wake of the European Super League debacle.
But the conversation took a rather different turn when Parlour, 48, accused Lyle of ‘wanting Arsenal to lose’.
After Lyle’s passionate rant against the Kroenkes, Parlour said out of the blue: “Robbie what’s your reaction when certain fans say – and I’m probably one of them – that Arsenal Fan TV wants Arsenal to lose because you get more hits on YouTube?
“Because, what it is, all the rival fans want to see Arsenal fans having a meltdown after we lose a game… sometimes it’s a bit of an embarrassment to look at it.
“As an Arsenal fan I want them to win every game, but I think sometimes you look at it and think, ‘if we lose we’re going to get more hits this week and make more money’!”
Robbie incredulously replied: “What’s this got to do what we’re talking about? Ray, with all due respect, you’re talking rubbish.
“I want my team to win absolutely every game and I know you’re very close to the club and maybe you find it very difficult to speak out on this situation…”
Parlour then asked: “Honest question Robbie. Did you get more hits this week because Arsenal are having a nightmare?”
But Robbie was ready with a fair answer: “Have talkSPORT had a lot more hits? You’re asking some ridiculous questions, Ray!
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“Are talkSPORT, are Sky Sports and all these broadcasters going to get more hits because what has gone on with the Super League? It’s a good talking point!”
Parlour then offered: “But most of your followers are from other teams. I bet you have more followers who are Tottenham fans than Arsenal fans…”
But Robbie was having none of it: “Oh, you’re talking absolute rubbish, Ray.
“This is the problem, you’re trying to protect your job at Arsenal instead of talking about a very serious thing, the owners of our clubs and various other clubs trying to sell out a history, the fans and even the players of these clubs.
“And you’re asking me about hits? It’s nothing to do with hits, this is about Arsenal Football Club, a club that I love…”
Parlour still wouldn’t let it go though: “Oh come on Robbie, you love it when they lose as well. I’ve seen your videos when you lose and everyone’s having a meltdown…”
Robbie then fired back with an accusation of his own: “Have you seen it when we win? What is this?! I’m sorry, but you’re so out of touch, Ray. You’re so out of touch it is unbelievable.
“I respect you as a player, you were a great, great player for Arsenal but listen, you need to understand this is bigger than hits, wins or losses, this is about our football club that is being ruined by the owners who don’t care and this week they proved that.”
Parlour replied: “We’re a bit of a laughing stock because of your channel. People crack up when they see you all going mad.
You sound like Stan Kroenke – ‘it’s all about business and making money’
Robbie Lyle to Ray Parlour
“Robbie, I’m so pleased you’re doing well, don’t get me wrong, it’s all about business and all about making money, and good luck to you.”
But Robbie then got the final word: “You sound like Stan Kroenke – ‘it’s all about business and making money’.”
AFTV has divided fans in the past.
But on this occasion, England and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand sided with Robbie.
He tweeted: “Just heard @RealRomfordPele & @ItsDonRobbie…. don’t really agree with Ray on this…. ALL media have had more ‘hits’… @btsport @SkySports @talkSPORT included.
“Club fan media etc is NEW media – embrace it – it’s here to stay!”
Protests against the Kroenkes are expected to take place before this evening’s clash with Everton at Emirates Stadium.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
