Drone delays Fleetwood versus Arsenal Carabao Cup match at Highbury

Referee stops game early

Referee Michael Salisbury stopped the match with one minute and 40 seconds remaining on the clock. The official noticed a drone flying above the field while Arsenal prepared to take a free-kick. Play remained suspended for more than eight minutes after this discovery.

Police investigate operator

Referees spoke with management and staff on both benches while police began an investigation. A Sky commentator noted that authorities had located the drone operator before play resumed. The game restarted with ten minutes left on the clock.

Match continues later

The Carabao Cup last-16 fixture proceeded after the delay caused by the unmanned aircraft. Both teams returned to their positions once the situation was resolved. No further interruptions were reported in the available reports.