Rio Ngumoha scored the last minute winner for Arne Slot's side against Newcastle United at St James' Park
Referee Simon Hooper
Simon Hooper during Liverpool's match with Newcastle United(Image: Newcastle United via Getty Image)
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has demanded an inquiry into the Newcastle United game against Liverpool clash to determine why the match featured so many interruptions.
Liverpool netted in the 100th minute to secure a dramatic 3-2 triumph at St James' Park in what amounted to a classic smash-and-grab victory for the champions. Despite the thrills surrounding the encounter and Newcastle's spirited display with 10 men following Anthony Gordon's dismissal, criticism has emerged regarding the fragmented nature of the contest.
Data reveals 32 fouls were awarded during the fixture, in which Newcastle also suffered three injury casualties. Opta figures demonstrate the ball remained in play for just 40.8 per cent of the encounter, marking the lowest percentage for a Premier League fixture in 15 years, since Stoke City defeated Blackburn Rovers in February 2020.
Hackett believes these statistics are unacceptable and has urged the Premier League to investigate, though he maintains referee Simon Hooper bears no responsibility.
Speaking to Football Insider, he said: "This is frankly an unacceptable stat – it fails to deliver value for money to the paying fans. I would recommend that the Premier League launch an investigation to determine where time was lost.
"Hooper is an official who likes to keep his interventions to a minimum and create a good game flow. I would suggest that he is not to blame, but clearly can greatly influence the amount of game-time by ensuring the appropriate amount of added time is applied.
"The game has a problem that cannot be overlooked – the Premier League must investigate."
---
For the latest news and breaking news, visit liverpoolecho.co.uk/all-about/liverpool-fc. Get all the major headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @LivEchoLFC - the official Liverpool ECHO LFC Twitter account - for all the latest LFC news as it happens in real time.
We're also on Facebook/LiverpoolEchoLFC - your must-see LFC news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Liverpool ECHO.
Listen to our podcasts by searching for 'Blood Red' wherever you get your podcasts.
Sign up for one of the Liverpool Echo's free daily and weekly newsletters on Liverpool FC by clicking here.