Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande was fortunate to have the red card he received for an apparent slap overturned, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official told Football Insider that Scottish FA referees chief Willie Collum might need to engage with IFAB lawmakers over how the incident was interpreted. In the dying moments of the match at Tannadice Park last month, Diomande was sent off for what appeared to be a slap on Dundee United defender Kevin Holt during the 3-1 win. Although his dismissal was later rescinded on appeal, Hackett believes this decision may prompt further review by Scottish officials following recent developments.
In the latest episode of the Scottish FA’s VAR decision review show, audio from the officials’ communications was revealed. It turned out that two VAR officials, including Don Robertson, deemed the contact between Diomande and Holt as “negligible”—a call that would typically warrant only a yellow card. However, referee Nick Walsh, after checking the incident on the pitchside monitor during the game, initially decided to stick with his red card decision. Ultimately, Collum confirmed on the show that the review panel sided with the VAR officials’ assessment, leading to the red card being overturned.
Reacting to this, Hackett said, “The rules state that striking or attempting to strike is a red card offense, and players are expected to play with their feet. Deciding that a slap isn’t a striking offense sets a dangerous precedent. The referee closest to the incident should be able to judge the force used, and VAR should only advise—not instruct—ending its role once the referee is directed to review the monitor. It’s surprising that the appeal was upheld when, by law, in Scotland, a slap would normally earn only a yellow card. I believe the Scottish FA should consult with IFAB to clarify whether Willie Collum’s interpretation and that of the appeals panel are correct.”
This wasn’t the only controversial decision in the match; a penalty appeal for handball by Declan Gallagher was also rejected. Furthermore, this isn’t the first time Diomande has come under fire for escaping full punishment—many felt he was lucky not to have been sent off against Hibs for a studs-up challenge on Nicky Cadden in early January. Despite the scrutiny, Diomande has maintained his place in Philippe Clement’s starting lineup in the two games played since his red card was overturned.
