A former FIFA referee has reacted to the footage of a controversial incident that emerged from the game between Celtic and Rangers.
Alistair Johnston made a tackle on Mikey Moore that many believed should have seen him sent off.
Recently, footage was released by the SFA showing the discussions held between the on-field referee and VAR, explaining why he was not given a red card.
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Mark Clattenburg believes the officials failed to protect Mikey Moore
Former Premier League and FIFA referee Mark Clattenburg believes that Johnston should have been sent off for his challenge on Moore.
In his view, the officials are supposed to protect the players, and by not doing that, they have not done their jobs adequately.
Clattenburg believes that Johnston’s studs caught the Gers attacker with speed and that endangered his safety.
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Speaking exclusively to Rangers News, he said: “Alistair Johnston’s tackle on Mikey Moore in the recent Glasgow derby has again been heavily discussed after the VAR audio was released by the SFA and the head of refereeing, Willie Collum.
“While I can understand and respect the process from the VAR, the final outcome of the decision is wrong.
“The tackle should have been punished by a red card as the studs of Johnston catch his opponent on the leg with speed, and this could easily have endangered the safety of his opponent.
“Referees must protect players and this was not followed by the VAR or referee.
“Of course, Collum will protect his referees, and this is understandable, but he must also be honest when a mistake happens.”
Rangers have every reason to feel hard done by
The officiating issues have been well known to fans in Scotland for months, but favourable decisions being given to Celtic have become news in the wider footballing world as well.
Clattenburg’s comments just show why the Gers have every reason to feel unfairly treated, especially with the result having such a major bearing on the title race.
It is good to see the likes of Hearts, too, issuing statements to highlight such things, and the SFA will need to conduct a thorough assessment of their officials ahead of the new season.
