Keith Hackett

Wed 26 February 2025 8:00, UK

Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams should have been carded by Michael Oliver in his side’s defeat to Brighton, Keith Hackett has said.

The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that there was however not enough in his challenge on Tariq Lamptey for it to warrant VAR intervening to send off the American.

Adams has often been hampered by injuries since leaving Leeds for Bournemouth, although he has been able to be more involved for Andoni Iraola’s side during the current campaign.

Against Brighton though, the midfielder found himself under the spotlight for different reasons following one particular challenge in that match.

Tyler Adams avoids sanction after Tariq Lamptey foul

Fabian Hurzeler’s side had taken the lead in that game through a Joao Pedro penalty after Bournemouth goalkeeper Kepa brought down the Brighton striker.

Around ten minutes after that incident, Adams himself was penalised for a challenge on opposition full-back Lamptey.

Chasing a loose ball, the Bournemouth midfielder failed to win possession, and instead caught the 24-year-old on the front of the ankle with his boot.

Referee Oliver however, elected not to show a card to Adams, with VAR also electing not to intervene to recommend a red card check for the 26-year-old, booking him minutes later for dissent instead.

Now Hackett has suggested that while VAR were right not to get involved, Oliver himself should still have taken action.

Keith Hackett issues verdict over Bournemouth vs Brighton controversy

Speaking to Football Insider about whether Adams was fortunate not to be sanctioned with a card of either colour for that foul, the former referee said:

“The challenge is reckless for which Michael Oliver should have issued a yellow card. Under VAR criteria intervention by Stockley Park is only allowed on red card offences when it comes to fouls.

“This particular challenge does not fulfil the criteria for serious foul play as it lack malice or brutality. The player should have received a yellow card.”

Justin Kluivert continued his good form to equalise for Bournemouth just past the hour-mark after being teed up by MIlos Kerkez.

However, the Cherries would be denied any sort of positive result after substitute Danny Welbeck’s goal with 15 minutes of normal time remaining secured a 2-1 win for Brighton.

That result boosts the hosts’ hopes of a European place, while damaging the aspirations of Iraola’s own side in their pursuit of a continental spot.