Ex-Premier League referee issues emphatic Kieran Trippier verdict as Newcastle United controversy analysed
Keith Hackett has applauded VAR official Peter Bankes after Newcastle United defender Kieran Trippier’s red card was overturned on Sunday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League official said the incident saw “the best use of VAR so far this season.”
Trippier was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Kevin De Bruyne in the second half of Newcastle’s 3-3 draw with Man City at St. James’ Park.
Referee Jarred Gillett adjudged the Magpies right-back to have endangered his opponent with a high tackle.
However, Gillett overturned his on-field decision after consulting the pitch-side monitor on the advice of VAR official Peter Bankes.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of the events that unfolded, Hackett said: “Overall, I think this was a brilliant execution of VAR.
“This is what VAR is for.
“Having been out in the middle for many years, what fans see and what we see on TV has greater clarity than what the referee’s view. It is about proximity to play and the viewing angle. The viewing angle can impact the referee’s decision to make a clear decision.
“What has happened here is that Gillett is with the play but his viewing angle has impacted his decision. I think that is why he has said it is a red card. He saw the contact as being heavy and high. He was looking at a player coming towards. That is why he went with a red card.
“This is an experienced referee. Peter Bankes, who is a good referee, was on VAT and told him to look at it.
“When you look at it against he is off the ground and reckless but it was not sufficient for a red.
“The outcome was absolutely spot on. For me, it was the best use of VAR so far this season.”
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