Aina's cross hitting Ait-Nouri's arm: Michael Owen, O'Neill clash over Nottingham Forest's penalty claim

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen and ex-Nottingham Forest manager Martin O'Neill were involved in a heated debate following a controversial penalty decision during Nottingham Forest's 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night.  

The contentious moment occurred in the 34th minute when Ola Aina's cross struck the arm of Rayan Ait-Nouri inside the penalty area, sparking loud penalty appeals from the Forest supporters.

However, referee Peter Banks, after a VAR review, chose not to award a penalty.  

Had the decision gone Forest's way, it could have provided an opportunity to double their lead after Morgan Gibbs-White had opened the scoring in the seventh minute.

The England international netted with a composed finish into the bottom corner following a precise assist from Anthony Elanga.  

Chris Wood eventually extended Forest's lead in the 44th minute, converting a cut-back from Callum Hudson-Odoi to seal the victory.  

Super Eagles forward, Taiwo Awoniyi scored the third goal, slotting home a cut back from James Ward-Prowse in injury time. 

The penalty incident has since sparked widespread debate, with Owen and O'Neil presenting opposing views during the half-time analysis.  

Owen backed the referee's decision, arguing that Ait-Nouri's hand position was natural and did not warrant a penalty.  

"I personally think it was the right decision. I mean his arm isn't in an unnatural position, it's right by his side, okay he hits it hard," Owen stated on Premier League Productions, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com.

"I think it's a natural position, the ball comes hard, fast and it just hits him in a normal position. I have really enjoyed the Premier League this season in terms of not giving penalties for things like that."

O'Neil, however, disagreed after reviewing the footage, believing the decision could have gone either way.  

Martin O'Neill added: "Having seen the replay, I thought I would not be surprised had it been given as a penalty."

Ola Aina has been a key figure for Nottingham Forest this season, helping the club climb to third in the Premier League table.

The Super Eagles fullback has made 20 league appearances, scoring twice while delivering consistent defensive and offensive performances.  

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: nottinghamforest.co.uk

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