FA take no action after incident between linesman and Andy Robertson

The FA have decided to take no action against linesman Constantine Hatzidakis after he appeared to elbow Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson during the Reds’ 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Sunday. The incident was investigated after the match but the official has been cleared of any wrongdoing. 

The coming together happened at the end of the first half of the encounter with Liverpool trailing 2-1. Robertson had gone over to remonstrate with the linesman on his way to the tunnel after feeling aggrieved by one of his decisions. 

Hatzidakis appeared to ignore him walking straight past but as Robertson followed him it appeared that he lifted his elbow to the Scotland captain’s face leaving him incensed.

The FA launched an investigation into the incident after the match but decided against taking any further action after consulting all the evidence including speaking to players, officials and club staff. 

Explaining the decision, a spokesperson for the FA said: “We have thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence of the recent incident at Anfield involving the Liverpool defender Andy Robertson and match official Constantine Hatzidakis, and we will be taking no further action.

“Our comprehensive process involved reviewing detailed statements from Liverpool and the PGMOL, as well as multiple angles of video footage, in relation to both the incident and its surrounding circumstances.”

Hatzidakis has also given his version of events, confirming he had held open talks with Robertson to apologise. 

“I fully assisted The FA with their investigation and have discussed the matter directly with Andy Robertson during an open and positive conversation,” he said. “It was certainly not my intention to make any contact with Andy as I pulled my arm away from him and for that I have apologised. I look forward to returning to officiating matches.”

Hatzidakis was initially stood down from his duties after the incident but will now be free to run the line in upcoming games with no investigation lingering over his conduct. 

Free William Hill shop bets every day of the Aintree Festival with your Daily Express

We’ve teamed up with William Hill, to give you a free bet to place in-shop every day of the festival! Celebrate the most anticipated racing event of the year with your Daily Express, pick up your paper on Thursday 13, Friday 14 and Saturday 15 April, 2023 to get your hands on a FREE William Hill bet to make the event even more memorable.