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A former Chelsea star calls Neto a "spectacular" disappointment after a "reckless" red card cost his team dearly against Arsenal.

The match was tightly contested until Jurrien Timber put the Gunners back in front with 24 minutes remaining.

From that moment, Neto's afternoon quickly unraveled: he first received a yellow card for aggressively protesting the goal and, just three minutes later, received a second yellow card for a cynical foul on Gabriel Martinelli to stop a counterattack.

The numerical disadvantage proved insurmountable for Liam Rosenior's men, who suffered another defeat against their local rivals.

In statements to BBC Radio Five Live after the final whistle, former Chelsea forward Sutton expressed his disbelief at the lack of composure shown by Neto.

The pundit highlighted how the individual error undermined the team's collective effort in a match where points were within reach.

Sutton said: "From Chelsea's point of view, Pedro Neto has let them down spectacularly. What an idiot, to get sent off like that."

Action Images via ReutersAction Images via Reuters

His comments reflect the growing frustration among the Stamford Bridge faithful, as the club has seen nine players sent off in all competitions this season.

This poor disciplinary record continues to hinder Rosenior's attempts to secure a top-four finish and advance in European competition.

The club captain, Reece James, also addressed the consequences of the defeat and acknowledged that the team's inability to keep 11 players on the field is a major obstacle.

Although the Blues showed flashes of quality, especially thanks to James' dangerous set-piece deliveries, being a man down made the final stages of the match very difficult.

The captain admitted that the frequency of these incidents is a matter of great concern that must be addressed immediately behind closed doors.

James explained the situation candidly to Sky Sports: "We have talked about it; it has come up several times; each time it is someone different, not always the same player. Internally, we have to review and keep improving.

It is a problem: we play in the most difficult league in the world. You play against the best or the worst. 11 vs. 11 is difficult; 11 vs. 10 is even more difficult, regardless of who you play against.

I have no doubt about the team and the coaching staff; today it didn't work out for us, but we have to regroup and try again."

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