Ex-PGMOL Chief Makes His Feelings Clear Over Marco Bizot Red Card vs Newcastle United

In a candid assessment, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has strongly criticized the red card shown to Leicester City goalkeeper Marco Bizot during their Premier League clash against Newcastle United at the King Power Stadium. The incident, which occurred in the 20th minute, saw Bizot dismissed for a challenge on Newcastle's Jacob Murphy, leaving Leicester with ten men and ultimately contributing to a 2-1 defeat.

Hackett, a respected figure in refereeing circles with decades of experience, labeled the decision as "poor refereeing" and "harsh." He argued on his Football Insider column that Bizot's challenge was a legitimate attempt to play the ball, with minimal contact on Murphy. "The goalkeeper got to the ball first with an outstretched leg. There was no excessive force, no studs up, and Murphy was not seriously hurt," Hackett wrote. He emphasized that VAR official Stuart Attwell should have intervened to overturn referee Robert Jones' call, calling it a "clear and obvious error."

The controversy stemmed from Bizot racing out of his goal to intercept a through-ball to Murphy. Jones initially cautioned Bizot with a yellow but, after a pitchside review prompted by VAR, upgraded it to red for serious foul play. Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy echoed Hackett's sentiments post-match, branding it "unfair" and a turning point in the game.

Hackett urged PGMOL to review the decision, warning it undermines trust in officiating. "Referees must protect goalkeepers making brave saves like this," he added. Newcastle capitalized on their numerical advantage, with goals from Harvey Barnes and Alexander Isak sealing the win despite a late Jamie Vardy reply for Leicester.

This incident reignites debates on VAR consistency in the Premier League, with fans and pundits divided. Hackett's outspoken view highlights ongoing tensions between ex-officials and current standards.

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