Exclusive: Hackett reacts to Bushiri and Schlupp incident in Celtic vs Hibernian
Keith Hackett has revealed VAR should not have intervened on a “reckless” challenge against Celtic defender Jeffrey Schlupp.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the miscued shot that injured Schlupp, from Rocky Bushiri, should not have seen a VAR intervention.
Celtic suffered a shock 2-1 loss against Hibernian on Saturday (22 February), however their Old Firm rivals, Rangers, failed to capitalise after losing 2-0 to St Mirren on the same day.
Daizen Maeda looked to have scored a late equaliser for Celtic, but his goal was controversially ruled out by VAR, with the ball being deemed out of play as Alistair Johnston swung in a cross.
That decision was not the only controversial one as the two sides played out a wonderful back-and-forth match, as Bashiri escaped punishment for injuring Schlupp.
Ex-PGMOL chief gives verdict on Rocky Bushiri incident on Celtic defender Jeffrey Schlupp
Hibs were leading 2-0 in the 57th minute, when the ball found its way to Bushiri on the edge of the box.
The former Norwich defender sliced at the ball as he took a shot, and Schlupp managed to get a foot in to block the effort.
However, the Hibs defender then followed through, planting his studs into the Ghanaian defenders shin, causing the left-back to need treatment from the medical staff.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the incident, ex-PMGOL chief Hackett, said:
“The referee should have sanctioned [Rocky Bushiri] with a yellow card for a reckless challenge. VAR frankly should not have got involved.
“It was not a challenge that should have been reviewed, because it was not serious foul play.
“The referee should have sanctioned a yellow card.”
Celtic ride their luck to maintain 13 point lead over Rangers
Celtic controversially exited the Champions League against Bayern Munich on Tuesday (18 February), and looked off the pace against Hibs.
| 2024/25 Scottish Premiership standing | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
| 1. Celtic | 27 | +63 | 69 |
| 2. Rangers | 27 | +32 | 56 |
However, thanks to Rangers’ 2-0 loss to St Mirren, the 13 point cushion at the top of the table remains intact for the Hoops.
Philippe Clement looks unlikely to be managing Rangers next season, with Sean Dyche now being considered for the role.