Celtic news: Ex-Fifa official demands ban as controversial Josip Juranovic image emerges
Danilo should have been sent off for his challenge on Celtic defender Josip Juranovic during Brazil’s penalty shootout defeat to Croatia in the World Cup quarter-finals last week (9 December).
That is the view of ex-Fifa and Premier League referee Keith Hackett, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Danilo’s foul.
The 31-year-old’s boot caught the face of Juranovic just outside the Brazil penalty area in the first half when the game was goalless.
He was shown a yellow card by Premier League referee Michael Oliver and VAR did not feel he had made a clear and obvious error.
Danilo would have been banned for his country’s next competitive game if he was sent off.
“I think he was fortunate to just get a yellow,” Hackett said after analysing the image with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“In another game, it could have easily been a red card.
“This is a still image that can show a much more difficult position then actual play.
“Michael Oliver refereed this game and I do think he had a very good game. This was just one situation where Michael judged it to be reckless and not endangering the safety of his opponent.
“If you look at the still, that exaggerates the problem because it’s not a 3D image.”
Sources told Football Insider last month (30 November) that Celtic are confident of agreeing a £5million-plus January sale of Juranovic.
The Hoops have been trying to tie the 27-year-old down to a new contract but will now accept an offer in the winter window if it meets their valuation.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has issued a Celtic claim as near-£10million Rangers legal action launched.