Ex-Premier League referee: Tottenham told to hold crunch Emerson Royal talks as controversial image emerges
Tottenham need to give Emerson Royal “operational advice” after his red card in the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday (1 October), according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insisted Emerson’s foul on Gabriel Martinelli was “silly” and lacked common sense.
As shown on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme, the 23-year-old was dismissed for a stamp on the back of Martinelli’s ankle.
Martinelli was heading towards his own goal and was well inside his own half as Arsenal led 2-1.
Emerson retained his place in the side for Spurs’ 0-0 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Tuesday night (4 October).
However, he will now be unavailable for their next three domestic games, beginning with the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday (8 October).
“I think the player was silly here,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“Ultimately, you’ve got to use a bit of common sense. It was a red card, there’s no question he takes the man just above the ankle, back of the leg.
“I don’t think there’s going to be any complaints or appeal against that. The players have a responsibility against their opponent.
“I think Taylor got that one spot on.
“I suspect the manager will give him some operational advice, he needs it.
“With VAR and all that goes with it, players are not going to get away with these challenges.”
Emerson has started seven of Tottenham’s eight Premier League games this season.
Antonio Conte also has Djed Spence and Matt Doherty available to play at right-back.
In other news, a defender wanted by Tottenham has agreed a deal after Fabio Paratici talks.