Ex-Premier League referee issues ‘dangerous’ Callum Wilson claim as Alan Shearer fumes at Newcastle United controversy
The referee was right to blow for a foul just before Callum Wilson thought he had scored for Newcastle United in their 0-0 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday (13 August).
That is the view of ex-Fifa and Premier League referee Keith Hackett, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Wilson’s “dangerous” play in the Brighton penalty area.
The 30-year-old had his boot level with Lewis Dunk’s head and the referee immediately blew the whistle.
Alan Shearer highlighted the incident on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme claiming the referee should have waited for the attack to finish before blowing his whistle so it could be checked by VAR.
He also claimed Wilson’s foot was a “yard” away from the head of his opponent so it was not a foul.
“Ultimately, the referee has got this one right,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“That goes over the line of dangerous play. With the risk of head injuries and all that goes with it, referees have got to get tighter with it.
“It might seem harsh and Alan Shearer might be unhappy because he says there’s a yard between them when you can clearly see there is not.
“On this one, in the interest of the safety of the opponent, the referee has blown.
“It’s harsh. Referees as they got more experienced they will learn when to and when not to blow.
“But on this one I think Graham Scott was decisive. He’s seen it and therefore he did need the VAR, he’s got a clear view of it.
“The boot is in the area of his opponent’s head, that is dangerous and I would be blowing.”
In other news, Newcastle United have submitted a £20million bid for a striker who can be a Premier League sensation.