Ex-Fifa official tips FA probe after ‘video evidence’ emerges of Rudiger incident in Chelsea-Tottenham clash
Keith Hackett has warned players like Antonio Rudiger are at “risk of serious injury” after he was struck by a lighter thrown by a member of the crowd as Chelsea beat Tottenham 2-0 yesterday (23 January).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee claimed the Football Association and the Premier League need to launch an investigation into the incident.
Sky Sports reported yesterday two arrests have been made after objects were thrown from the away end at Stamford Bridge.
Tottenham confirmed they will work together with Chelsea to review the footage and take appropriate action.
Thomas Tuchel urged the relevant people to take action on the worrying trend as “the fantastic environment and unique atmosphere of England” needs to be protected.
“I think this is a really major problem,” Hackett told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“It’s very difficult for the authorities because these things happen rarely but at the moment it’s happening too much and this weekend may have been a catalyst.
“The Football Association and the Premier League need to review and determine if there’s anything else they can do to prevent this happening.
“They’ve got video evidence for after the incident. It’s a very difficult one but I’m just concerned that a player is at risk here of a serious injury.
“The Rudiger one is reported to be a lighter.”
Elsewhere this weekend, Aston Villa’s Matty Cash and Lucas Digne were struck by a plastic bottle during their 1-0 win over Everton.
The Blues confirmed a fan has been arrested in relation to the incident.
In other news, West Ham are lining up talks to sign a Chelsea sensation.