Ex-Premier League referee can’t believe Jack Grealish controversy as Man City footage re-analysed
Keith Hackett has claimed Man City should have been awarded a penalty during their 3-0 win on Sunday (22 January) after a “careless” challenge from Wolves’ Nathan Collins on Jack Grealish.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee suggested the £100million star’s “reputation” for drawing fouls may have preceded him in this instance.
As seen in footage from the Sky Sports Premier League YouTube channel (22 January), Wolves defender Nathan Collins made contact with Grealish’s calf after being fooled by his intricate footwork inside the 18-yard box.
David Coote was positioned perfectly to make a decision, but waved away the England international’s claims – and his judgement was upheld by VAR official Darren England.
Man City were eventually awarded a penalty for a similar challenge on Ilkay Gundogan in the second half.
Erling Haaland’s hat trick gave Pep Guardiola’s side all three points and helped them keep pace with league leaders Arsenal.
Hackett told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It was a careless challenge from Collins.
“Grealish has a reputation for going down easily, but I think it should have been a penalty kick.
“The referee was in a perfect position to see everything, but his judgement on this occasion was wrong.”
As per FBref, Grealish won the 10th-most fouls of any player in the Premier League last season (2021-22).
Man City have been awarded the second-most penalties in the top flight this season (four) – behind Fulham (six).
In other news, pundit hits back at Pep Guardiola after new Man City rant.