Ex-Premier League referee: Howard Webb set to intervene after twist in Fabinho controversy at Liverpool
Keith Hackett has claimed referee chief Howard Webb will hold “video sessions and open discussion” to improve referee performance after he admitted Liverpool star Fabinho should have been sent off in the FA Cup fourth round.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insisted accountability like that is a “positive step” for officiating in the top flight.
Fabinho controversially avoided a red card for his late challenge which raked down the Achilles of Brighton star Evan Ferguson during Liverpool’s 2-1 FA Cup loss last month (29 January).
David Coote only saw fit to issue a caution – and his decision was not challenged by VAR official Neil Swarbrick.
As quoted by Sky Sports (4 February), Webb publicly said that Swarbrick should have intervened to recommend an on-pitch check for a red card offence.
The PGMOL chief recognised the need for VAR to “step in” more often on challenges which “endanger” players.
Webb also criticised the decision-making on the horror challenge from Andy Carroll on Christian Eriksen – which subsequently ruled the Man United playmaker out for most of the season.
Hackett told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It seems like Webb may go back to how I managed the PGMOL.
“That was with video sessions with the referees, and open discussion.
“That will lead to better and more consistent decision-making.
“It’s a positive step to hear him taking accountability for this decision which was ultimately wrong.
“It’s good that Webb has come out very early in his tenure and told everyone what he is trying to do.
“He’s bringing his skillset from the US, who are the best operators of VAR in the world – for me. Good on him.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Liverpool scout “next Jude Bellingham” with pre-summer deal lined up.