Eberechi Eze’s ‘nonsense’ blasted by PGMOL insider in Crystal Palace win v Liverpool
Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze’s contentious penalty-kick style requires further clarification from PGMOL, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that, while the rules do not strictly prohibit the Palace star’s stuttered run-up, he would prefer a more traditional approach.
Man United’s Bruno Fernandes and former Chelsea star Jorginho both have famous spot-kick techniques, but Eze appeared to completely stop during his routine, though it was seen as feinting his kick.
Despite the run-up, Liverpool’s Alisson was able to get a strong hand to the effort, pushing it onto the post before Justin Devenny’s winner at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 10 August, six kicks later.
Eberechi Eze’s penalty technique draws attention
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
While Eze, who has been strongly linked with Arsenal, missed during the shootout, the Eagles managed to claim victory against the Reds just three months after beating Man City in the FA Cup final.
It is certainly a much-needed positive amid the news that Palace’s appeal to play in the Europa League next season was dismissed, with fans being given yet another unforgettable memory in the capital.
Although the 27-year-old was not involved in the goals during normal time, efforts from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr were enough to force a shootout after efforts from Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong.
Frimpong was on the end of a “reckless” challenge from Adam Wharton, one which surprisingly went unpunished, adding yet more controversy to a four-goal thriller at Wembley over the weekend.
Possible rule change after Crystal Palace v Liverpool shootout?
Hackett spoke exclusively to Football Insider about his frustrations over Eze’s penalty, saying: “The outcome here is probably the right one. Isn’t it a nonsense that he goes through all that process and then fails to score?
“I’m a traditionalist – a quick run, a boot, and the speed will get that ball into the back of the net. I think the laws of the game cover it, but I think we probably need further clarification.
“I personally would like to see continuous movement rather than these nonsense things that happened before a ball is kicked. I smile when I see these, and they miss.
“I don’t know what the coach will think, but I think it’s terrible. He hasn’t achieved what he set out to do – score the penalty.”