Exclusive: Kulusevski lucky over bloody Anthony Gordon in Spurs v Newcastle tilt
Dejan Kulusevski was lucky to not to concede a penalty for a challenge on Anthony Gordon as Tottenham were beaten by Newcastle, Keith Hackett has said.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official told Football Insider did however say that he did believe the Spurs man had not intended to hurt his opponent with the challenge.
Many connected with Ange Postecoglou’s side were far from impressed with the officiating as they were beaten 2-1 by the Magpies on Saturday (4 January).
Hackett though has suggested that there was another incident where Newcastle may feel they were unfortunate with a refereeing decision.
Anthony Gordon penalty claim verdict issued after Newcastle vs Tottenham
After both sides found the net in the opening six minutes of the game, Alexander Isak continued his excellent form to put Eddie Howe’s 2-1 up before half-time.
That was how the game finished in terms of the scoreline, but Newcastle may feel they should have had the chance to extend their lead further on the hour-mark.
As Gordon carried the ball into the area from the left, the winger looked to cut inside while looking to shoot only to go down under a challenge from Kulusevski.
Replays then showed that the Spurs man had caught the winger in the face with his shoulder, which left Gordon with blood running down his face.
Hackett admitted that at first glance he did not think Newcastle should have been awarded a penalty for that challenge, but did suggest that he has seen penalties given for such moments.
Speaking to Football Insider about that penalty call, the former referee said:
“I saw this I didn’t think it was a penalty at the time. I think that he’s actually run into the player, I don’t think that there’s a deliberate action here by the defending player on first view.
“I’ve seen penalty kicks given but I think it would have been a tough call. Spurs player: fortunate.”
With that result making it five straight wins for Newcastle in the Premier League they are now just one point behind Chelsea in the standnings.
Tottenham meanwhile are 12th with just two wins in their last 11 games in all competitions.
In other news, Newcastle can land a £100million windfall if one thing happens this season.
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