Anthony Taylor should have dismissed Gabriel Martinelli for his moment of recklessness during Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool on Thursday night.
That is the view of former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett, who told Football Insider that while Taylor managed the game well overall and avoided escalating tensions, the incident on 8 January warranted a red card.
Mikel Arteta may believe Arsenal have “reached another level”, but this flashpoint suggested otherwise.
With only Leandro Trossard and Alexis Mac Allister booked during the 90 minutes, the referee was clearly reluctant to brandish his cards. However, he had little option but to intervene late on.
Linked with a potential Arsenal exit, Martinelli lost his composure when he shoved injured Liverpool defender Conor Bradley off the pitch. The act triggered a confrontation involving several players and resulted in Ibrahima Konaté being cautioned. It was a deeply frustrating moment for both teams and could yet attract further scrutiny if the FA choose to review the incident.
Hackett calls for investigation into Martinelli
Reacting to the clash between Martinelli and Bradley, Hackett did not hide his anger when speaking to Football Insider.
“It was clear the Liverpool player was seriously injured. Martinelli’s behaviour was, quite frankly, disgraceful and deserved a red card,” he said.
“His actions endangered his opponent. When a player is clearly hurt, it is vital that medical staff are allowed to assess the situation immediately and decide the best course of action.
“Anthony Taylor actually handled the match well and his quick yellow card helped calm the situation, but I would like the authorities to review the incident with a view to upgrading that decision. While I don’t expect further action, I would welcome it.”
Szoboszlai unimpressed by Arsenal winger
Tensions were already running high as the game edged towards full-time with neither side able to find a winner, but Martinelli had no justification for his behaviour.
Given his own history with injuries, the Arsenal winger should have shown far more understanding towards Bradley, who was clearly in significant discomfort after misjudging a clearance near the touchline.
Speaking after the match, Dominik Szoboszlai voiced his disappointment, saying: “I understand he wants to win — we all do — but a player’s health is far more important.”
The Hungarian midfielder summed it up perfectly. Martinelli’s actions were inexcusable, and an apology would be the very least expected in the near future.
