Ex-Premier League referee issues ‘100 per cent’ Bruno Fernandes claim as Man United controversy analysed
Referee Martin Atkinson was right not to award Man United midfielder Bruno Fernandes a penalty at Crystal Palace on Sunday, according to Keith Hackett.
The ex-Fifa and Premier League official, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Atkinson was “100 per cent” correct in his judgement.
As shown on Sky Sports (22 May), Fernandes, 27, went to ground inside Palace’s 18-yard box after a coming together with Joel Ward.
Fernandes was frustrated with referee Atkinson’s decision to wave play on.
VAR official Peter Bankes concurred with his colleague and did not adjudge that the Portugal international had been illegally hauled to the ground.
Palace went on to win the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from ex-Red Devil Wilfried Zaha.
When asked by Football Insider for his thoughts on the penalty appeal, Hackett said: “It would have been soft.
“What is interesting is that Fernandes falls backwards and not forwards. That is a clue to the referee.
“He is moving forward but leaning back on his opponent. That is why he has not got a penalty kick. Those are the things that a referee has got to look out for.
“The referee doesn’t think that’s enough to get a foul. I’m with Atkinson on this one, 100 per cent.”
Man United finished in the top six despite the loss at Selhurst Park.
Erik ten Hag’s side will play Europa League football next season.
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