Ex-PGMOL chief calls on Howard Webb to take action after controversial Liverpool vs Arsenal clash
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has urged Howard Webb to address refereeing standards following the controversial Premier League encounter between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield.
The former referee believes Andy Madley should not have been appointed to officiate such an important fixture, particularly given his recent performances.
Liverpool suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, November 1, with Kai Havertz scoring the decisive goal in the first half.
However, the result was overshadowed by several contentious refereeing decisions that left both sets of supporters unhappy.
One of the biggest talking points involved Jurriën Timber pulling Alexander Isak’s shirt inside the penalty area. The Liverpool striker was prevented from getting a proper attempt at goal, but referee Madley and the VAR officials decided against awarding a penalty.
Hackett was particularly critical of the decision and believes the incident was a clear mistake that should have been dealt with differently.
Hackett questions Madley’s appointment
Speaking to Football Insider, the former PGMOL chief admitted he was surprised Madley had been selected to referee such a high-profile encounter.
Hackett believes the Premier League has several experienced officials who could have been given the responsibility instead.
He also questioned the consistency of Madley’s performances, suggesting that referees must demonstrate a higher level of reliability before being trusted with major matches.
Hackett explained that if he were still responsible for referee appointments, Madley would not be given another match the following weekend.
He added that officials must understand that poor performances have consequences and that maintaining high standards should be a priority.
Howard Webb urged to improve refereeing standards
Hackett’s comments have placed further pressure on Howard Webb, the current PGMOL chief, to address the ongoing concerns surrounding Premier League officiating.
The former referee believes officials must become more consistent and ensure that major decisions are handled correctly.
The controversial incident involving Isak was particularly frustrating for Liverpool, especially considering the potential consequences of the decision.
Timber’s shirt pull could also have resulted in a red card if the incident had been judged to deny a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Meanwhile, tensions continued to rise during the match following an altercation involving Alexis Mac Allister and Noni Madueke.
Mac Allister appeared to accuse the Arsenal winger of making contact with his head, but Madueke avoided punishment while the Liverpool midfielder received a yellow card.
The controversy has once again raised questions about the standard of Premier League refereeing and the consistency of VAR decisions.
