Linesman who ‘elbowed’ Robertson sidelined while FA investigate incident

The linesman who seemed to 'elbow' Andy Robertson won't be appointed for any matches by the PGMOL while the FA investigate the incident.

The official in question, Constantine Hatzidakis, was embroiled in a brief spat with Robertson during Liverpool's Premier League match against Arsenal. Robertson approached Hatzidakis at half time and the linesman responded by appearing to raise his arm in the defender's direction.

The incident sparked controversy and refereeing governing body PGMOL said they were planning to investigate what transpired after the game. A statement from PGMOL on Sunday read: "PGMOL is aware of an incident involving assistant referee Constantine Hatzidakis and Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson at half-time during the Liverpool v Arsenal fixture at Anfield.

ALSO READ: Five times football officials lost their heads after linesman 'elbows' Andy Robertson

"We will review the matter in full once the game has concluded." And they've now revealed that Hatzidakis will remained sidelined whilst the investigation takes place.

A follow-up declaration from PGMOL read on Monday, via The Athletic: “PGMOL will not be appointing Constantine Hatzidakis to fixtures in any of the competition it serves whilst The FA investigates the incident involving the assistant referee and Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson at Anfield.”

Does the linesman who 'elbowed' Andy Roberston deserve a reprieve? Let us know in the comments section below

The latest development in the proceedings comes after a slew of ex-referees admitted they fear Hatzidakis' career could be over, along with a huge ban if he's found guilty. Former Prem ref Mark Halsey reckons the linesman should be handed a similar ban to the one Fulham ace Aleksandar Mitrović was given for shoving referee Chris Kavanagh during Fulham's FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United.

Mitrovic was banned for eight matches for the contravention, although Halsey thinks he should've been sidelined for 10 games. And the FA feel the same as the ex-ref, as they announced they plan to appeal Mitrovic's ban, because it should be longer.

Meanwhile, it's still not clear what caused Hatzidakis to react toward Robertson in a questionable manner. And he's yet to publicly give his version of events.

READ NEXT:

  • UEFA-level referee denies being drunk in 'plane fight with passengers before match'

  • Hench lino unrecognisable years ago in FA Cup final role

  • Keane calls Robertson a 'big baby' after linesman's 'elbow'

  • Frustrated Ronaldo embroiled in argument as ex-Man Utd star storms off pitch

  • Roberto De Zerbi insists Cristian Stellini clash was a 'personal situation'

Source: Read Full Article