Anthony Elanga: Ex-Premier League referee issues ‘problem’ claim as controversial Man United footage analysed
Keith Hackett has admitted Man United could have had a penalty in their 0-0 draw with Watford on Saturday (26 February) for Craig Cathcart’s challenge on Anthony Elanga.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee claimed he agreed with Kevin Friend’s decision but he had “seen them given”.
As shown on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme, Elanga and Cathcart came together in the penalty area challenging for a loose ball in the 41st minute.
Elanga went to ground and stayed down hurt but Friend waved away Man United’s appeals for a penalty and a VAR review felt there was no need to challenge the on-field decision.
“I agree with Kevin Friend, I don’t think it’s enough for it to be a penalty,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“It’s not a clear and obvious error so I don’t think VAR can come in on that in its current operation.
“The problem is that the defender has gone in with his back to his opponent and stepped over the ball and the player has just run into it. That’s the problem.
“Yes, I have seen them given and I would have liked Kevin Friend to be a bit closer to be able to judge it.
“VAR have come in and said it’s not a clear and obvious error, let’s get on with it.”
United’s 0-0 draw with Watford leaves them in fourth in the Premier League.
However, Arsenal, Tottenham and Wolves in sixth, seventh and eighth all have games in hand over Ralf Rangnick’s side.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has revealed Liverpool have bagged £487million and are poised to rocket past Man United after new deals are ‘signed’.