Speaking to Sky Sports News, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has been speaking about James McArthur’s controversial challenge on Bukayo Saka on Monday.
The midfielder booted Saka as he attempted to volley a dropping ball, and while it looked like an accident, on second-viewing, you could see just how dangerous it was from McArthur.
Saka had to go off injured afterwards and while McArthur was only booked, Gallagher believed that a red card should have been brandished.
What’s been said?
The former referee gave his view on the incident.
“I felt it was wrong, the referee didn’t and if you look at it, if it’s not a red card it’s the highest you can go on the tariff without being sent off. When Saka clears the ball, McArthur goes in. I accept he has his eyes on the ball, but Saka clears the ball the ball into the air, the ball is gone and then he goes through him, so I anticipated a red card, the referee said no,” Gallagher said.
Accidental, but dangerous
McArthur probably didn’t mean to hurt Saka, but that doesn’t mean that this wasn’t dangerous play.
Compare this is Antoine Griezmann’s red card in the Champions League against Liverpool on Tuesday, they’re similar incidents, both players had their eyes on the ball but ended up endangering an opponent, but for some reason, Griezmann was sent off and McArthur was booked.
Gallagher says Mike Dean got this one wrong, and we can certainly see where he’s coming from.
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