Dermot Gallagher Reviews Controversial Premier League Moments: Man Utd, Arsenal, Chelsea

Former Premier League Referee Dermot Gallagher Analyzes Controversial Moments

In the latest round of Premier League fixtures, Dermot Gallagher has returned to provide insights on some of the most contentious decisions made by referees over the weekend. Here’s a breakdown of the key incidents from various matches, alongside analyses from Gallagher and others.

Manchester United vs. Tottenham

Incident: Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes received a straight red card for a high challenge on Tottenham's James Maddison, despite slipping before making contact.

Dermot Gallagher's Analysis: "I don’t think the referee can see it. He can’t discern the challenge clearly; it's a glancing blow down the leg. A yellow card would have been a more palatable decision."

Sue Smith's Take: "This is never a red. He slips and merely touches him with his heel—there's no force or intent to endanger the opponent."

Incident: Manchester United appealed for a penalty when a ball appeared to strike Cristian Romero's arm in the penalty area.

Dermot Gallagher's Analysis: "It hits his chest first, then goes to his arm. It’s not a handball; it all happens very quickly."

Arsenal vs. Leicester City

Incident: Gabriel Martinelli scored while Leicester claimed there should have been a free-kick in the build-up.

Dermot Gallagher's Analysis: "The referee said there was no foul. VAR should not re-referee that situation as he was in close proximity to the incident."

Incident: Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori avoided a second yellow card for a challenge on Facundo Buonanotte, while the latter received a yellow for his protest.

Dermot Gallagher's Insight: "They've been strict this season about such challenges not being seen as breaking up a promising attack."

Newcastle vs. Manchester City

Incident: A penalty was awarded to Newcastle after goalkeeper Ederson fouled Anthony Gordon in the box.

Dermot Gallagher's Analysis: "This was a clear penalty; it’s difficult to argue otherwise, but it’s not a red card since there was contact with his arm, not a foot."

Chelsea vs. Brighton

Incident: Chelsea was awarded a penalty following a challenge involving Sancho and Baleba.

Dermot Gallagher's Take: "It's a clumsy challenge, and the referee had a clear sight—it’s undoubtedly a penalty."

Everton vs. Crystal Palace

Incident: James Tarkowski made a strong challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta, which raised questions about the legality of the tackle.

Dermot Gallagher's Take: "He’s lucky; while he does get some of the ball, the manner of his tackle warrants closer scrutiny."

Wolves vs. Liverpool

Incident: A penalty was awarded for Nelson Semedo's hold on Diogo Jota.

Dermot Gallagher's Insight: "It’s a blatant foul in front of the referee, leading to the rightful penalty call."

Conclusion

This weekend's action again highlighted the complex nature of officiating in football. With VAR's ongoing influence, the interpretation of rules and decisions continue to spark debate among fans, analysts, and experts alike. Gallagher's commentary provides valuable clarity on these controversial moments, questioning not just the decisions made but the very principles by which they are judged.