Ex-Fifa official: Liverpool set to be victims of ‘crazy’ Uefa U-turn
Liverpool and the rest of the clubs competing in Uefa competitions have been the victims of a “crazy” and “awful” decision, according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insisted he cannot understand the scrapping of concussion substitutes in Uefa competitions.
The BBC’s Alistair Magowan reported last month (29 September) that the governing body had confirmed there would be no concussion subs in their competitions this season.
It came after Arsenal Women tried to take Beth Mead off during their 1-0 win over Ajax in the Women’s Champions League last month (28 September) with a head injury.
A replacement was ready to come on but was stopped by the fourth official and Arsenal were forced to finish the game with 10 players.
Asked whether Uefa’s decision was a mistake, Hackett told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “Yes, absolutely.
“Don’t suddenly change because it represents and presents difficulties.
“Football has a responsibility to the safety of those that partake in the game. There is no question that there is a lot of scientific evidence has come through that indicates concussion subs should be used.
“Does this mean that in a game under Uefa, someone who suffers a concussion is going to be allowed to continue to play? That cannot be right.
“I think it’s an awful decision. I’m very critical of Uefa who have a very strong medical team. I wonder how the medical committee view this decision.
“It’s crazy.”
Liverpool are second in their Champions League group after their opening three games.
They are next in European action on Wednesday (12 October) when they travel to Ibrox to face Rangers.
In other news, Jurgen Klopp has given the green light to a box-office Liverpool January signing after “huge news”.