Ex-refs chief is adamant over Yehor Yarmoliuk red card vs Liverpool after re-analysing footage

John Brooks was "spot on" to show Yehor Yarmoliuk a straight red card during Brentford's 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the referee should be "applauded" for his decision on Saturday, 17 October.

Keith Andrews' side took an unexpected lead through Keane Lewis-Potter at the Gtech Community Stadium, but it was all downhill from there.

Yarmoliuk was sent off in the eighth minute of added time at the end of the first half, with VAR spotting a headbutt from the midfielder on Liverpool's Jeremy Jacquet.

Following a review at the pitch-side monitor, Brooks felt he had no choice but to send the No.6 off, which completely changed the game for the Reds.

Victor Munoz equalised in the 62nd minute, and Alexander Isak netted the winner eight minutes later. The Bees' defeat was then compounded by a red card for Vitaly Janelt.

John Brooks 'deserves applause' over Brentford red card

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett was in no doubt over Yarmoliuk's red card, despite the debate on social media after the game.

"If you use your head against your opponent and make this contact, the referee's got this one spot on," he said.

"I think the referee needs to be applauded [for making the decision]. He's acted correctly.

"I'm getting a view this season that incidents in the penalty area being dealt with in the way that we were hoping they'd be dealt with. 

"And that is to manage, not effectively manage them, but to take action with the cards if appropriate. With this one, well done to the referee."

How have Liverpool unlocked Bradley Barcola?

While he was unable to find the back of the net, missing a key chance against the Bees, Bradley Barcola certainly seems to have found his feet at Anfield.

The big-money winger bagged a hat-trick against LASK mid-week, and he did supply the assist for Isak's fine winner at the Gtech Stadium.

Keith Wyness told Football Insider that the key to unlocking his full potential will be by playing long balls behind the full-back for him to run onto.

The Champions League, a more open style of football, will also be important, it is believed, and he showed that already against LASK.