Newcastle United news: Ex-Premier League referee stunned by ‘terrible’ Emil Krafth footage – ‘So bad it’s untrue’
Keith Hackett has claimed the decision to award Norway a penalty in their 2-1 win over Sweden in the Nations League on Sunday (5 June) for a foul by Newcastle United defender Emil Krafth was “so bad it’s untrue”.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Premier League and Fifa referee insisted Morten Thorsby was guilty of simulation and English VAR operator Stuart Atwell should have overturned Anthony Taylor’s on-field decision.
Thorsby and Krafth came together in the opening stages of the game before Thorsby fell to the ground and Taylor pointed to the spot.
Erling Haaland converted the penalty before doubling Norway’s lead in the second half.
Man United’s Anthony Elanga scored a consolation goal for Sweden in stoppage time at the end of the game.
“That’s how good we [referees in England] are,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“It’s so bad it’s untrue. The penalty kick awarded was absolute nonsense.
“This is one where there appears to be no contact. I can’t see any contact whatsoever. This is an exaggeration by the Norway player, it’s a clear act of simulation.
“He’s elated because he’s deceived the referee.
“I can’t see an offence. It’s an awful decision.
“I don’t know what his VAR is saying but he didn’t come in, terrible decision.”
Krafth was one of a number of Newcastle players reinvigorated by Eddie Howe in the 2021-22 season.
The 27-year-old is under contract at St. James’ Park until the summer of 2023 and will likely serve as Keiran Trippier’s understudy in the 2022-23 campaign.
In other news, Newcastle United have pulled the plug on a marquee forward deal.