Former PGMOL chief delivers furious verdict on Newcastle vs Chelsea refereeing controversy

Newcastle United supporters were left incensed after referee Andy Madley declined to reduce Chelsea to ten men during Saturday’s controversial 2–2 draw at St James’ Park.

Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has backed those frustrations, telling Football Insider that Alejandro Garnacho should have been sent off for a dangerous first-half challenge. Hackett believes the Argentine winger was fortunate to escape with only a yellow card following a studs-up tackle.

The match was filled with contentious moments. In addition to the disputed challenge, Newcastle felt they should have been awarded a penalty when Trevoh Chalobah pushed Anthony Gordon inside the area shortly after half-time. Eddie Howe was adamant the decision was wrong, even after VAR upheld Madley’s call.

There was further anger late in the game when Reece James tangled with Harvey Barnes near the edge of the box, with home supporters again calling for a red card. Those appeals were dismissed both on the pitch and by VAR officials at Stockley Park.

However, Hackett’s strongest criticism centred on Garnacho’s challenge in the 27th minute. The winger was booked for a high tackle on Jacob Ramsey, but Hackett argued the nature of the contact warranted far harsher punishment.

Concerns about player safety have grown this season, with an increasing number of high and studs-up challenges going unpunished in the Premier League. Hackett suggested Garnacho’s case is the latest example in a worrying trend that has also involved high-profile players in recent weeks.

Speaking on The Final Whistle, Hackett said the decision highlighted a broader misunderstanding of the laws of the game. He argued that allowing such challenges to be punished with only a yellow card risks undermining player welfare.

Hackett stressed that while he is not eager to see players sent off, the laws exist to protect footballers and must be applied correctly. He added that clarification from PGMOL chief Howard Webb is needed to ensure dangerous tackles are dealt with consistently moving forward.