Exclusive: Simon Hooper hailed as ‘unacceptable’ Lamptey punished for Brighton
Brighton full-back Tariq Lamptey was deemed “unacceptable” after his challenge on Morgan Gibbs-White in the Seagulls’ 7-0 defeat, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official told Football Insider that players have “got away” with these types of challenges in the past and praised the referee for spotting the offence.
Lamptey pulled Gibbs-White to the ground as Forest prepared for a corner, leading to a penalty for the hosts.
This came after Brighton were denied a penalty of their own after an incident involving Danny Welbeck and Nikola Milenkovic, but Hackett claims that decision was the “correct” one.
Hackett criticises Tariq Lamptey for poor defending as Brighton thrashed
Nuno Espírito Santo’s side thrashed the Seagulls 7-0 at the City Ground in a statement victory. They currently sit third in the league, level on points with Arsenal, as they strengthen their push for a Champions League spot.
Standout performances came from Anthony Elanga, who provided three assists, and Chris Wood, who netted a hat-trick, after signing a new contract a few days prior.
For Brighton, this marks their sixth loss of the season, and they now have just two wins in their last 10 league matches.
The penalty awarded to Forest came when the score was already 4-0, allowing Wood to complete his hat-trick and continue his brilliant goalscoring form.
For Lamptey, it was a clumsy error from a player who has been in and out of Fabian Hurzeler’s team, making just 10 league appearances this season.
He’s been linked with a move away, with Leicester City weighing up a move for the 24-year-old with just six months left on his current deal.
Still, Hackett was critical of the Ghanaian international for this incident and told Football Insider:
“Well it is frankly unacceptable defending. Referees have been far too lenient in these grappling offences.
“It is good at last to see someone penalised and a penalty kick awarded.
“Players have got away with these grappling offences for so long it has become a natural part of football. It is rugby not football.
“Well done the referee for penalising this offence.”
In other news, Sunderland respond to Brighton’s offer for Tom Watson.
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