Mike Jackson, the interim manager of Burnley, expressed his belief that Kai Havertz should have received a red card for a “dangerous” tackle during Arsenal‘s 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium. This win puts the Gunners just one win away from securing the Premier League title.
The German forward, Havertz, netted the decisive goal with a header in the first half, ensuring that Arsenal will clinch their first league title since 2004 if they defeat Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
Arsenal could also be crowned champions if Manchester City fails to secure a victory against Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Had Havertz been sent off for his challenge on Burnley’s Lesley Ugochukwu in the 69th minute, Arsenal would have finished the match with 10 players and he would have been suspended for the Crystal Palace game.
The incident was reviewed by the VAR team, but referee Paul Tierney did not consult the pitchside monitor, leading Jackson to criticize the officiating. “I don’t like seeing players sent off, but having watched it again, considering today’s refereeing standards, I think it should have been a red card for Havertz,” Jackson stated. “When you view it frame-by-frame, it’s clear from multiple angles.”
“It’s a dangerous play that lifts him off the ground. It was a cynical foul aimed at stopping the game, and I’m disappointed because, with 20 minutes remaining, it could have altered the outcome—we were still very much in the match. He [Havertz] could have caused a serious injury to Ugochukwu as well. These are crucial decisions that we often miss, and it’s been a consistent issue throughout the season.”
Jackson also commented on Arsenal’s winning goal, which resulted from a set piece, remarking that his team should have been more vigilant in defense. “We are aware of their threat from set pieces,” he noted. “Typically, someone fails to mark their man, and it’s those small details that distinguish the top teams.”